There is something special, satisfying even, about finding beauty in the small things in life. Taking the time to notice the marvellous minutiae of the natural world that surrounds us, especially here in Cornwall where we are blessed with so much wild flora and fauna.

Sarah Jane Humphry’s enchanting new book takes us from the blousy beauty of the Cornish hedgerow into the precise world of botanical illustration. With each gorgeous page the close observation and the rendering of every delicate detail a new and fascinated world opens up, just under our noses.

A respected botanical and scientific artist, Sarah has lived in Cornwall for most of her life. She can often be seen gathering specimens for her work out in the Cornish countryside. She has had work commissioned by the Royal Horticultural Society, the Royal College of Physicians, the Eden Project and the Body Shop, to name but a few.

Essential reading for the beginner and the experienced artist

With more than 200 illustrations this book is an absolute joy to just enjoy leafing through! But it is also essential reading for anyone interested in understanding the natural world. An invaluable guide for the artist. Sarah explains in detail the specific techniques of the botanical illustrator, the meticulous observation and precision of this genre. Enabling the experienced artist can explore this form. However, given that she also regularly teaches classes in illustration, this book is also perfect for the complete beginner, equipping you with all you need to know to get started.

Each chapter guides the reader through a different aspect of this beautiful niche form of drawing. From the history of botanical and scientific illustration to equipment and techniques, colour theory and field trips. Sarah lets us into her bewitching world of beyond-delicate detail. In places her stunning drawings seem to just pop of the page!

Importantly, in a time when most creatives are freelancers, she gives invaluable insight into not only how she has grown as an artist but also how she has developed her career.

Where and when

With her home and studio in Falmouth you can visit Sarah at work next week, 19th – 28th May for Open Studios.

And you can also pre-order Botanical Art with Scientific Illustration HERE.

And for a limited time special edition signed copies from Sarah’s Online Shop HERE.

Further reading

If you liked this post you might also like:

Review of Marco Polo’s new Guide to Devon and Cornwall 2018

Ben Barker – Ceramist & Alchemist

Simon Bradley on Gyotaku, a seagull called Derek and finding his Cornish Bolthole

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