Drawing_Closer_To_Nature

Drawing Closer

To Nature

Botanical illustrator Swati Chandak Sharma tells us about her process in capturing the intricate details of nature around us.

STORY BY

SWATI CHANDAK SHARMA

WHAT’S IN

WHAT’S IN THIS NOOK?

The art of seeing closely

Tracing nature, one line at a time

Notes from the artist’s sketchbook

THIS NOOK?

My eyes are constantly searching, whether I am out for a walk or for a meeting, a lunch or dinner. Phone camera and a sketchbook are my constant companions anywhere. If I find something interesting in form or any noteworthy facts about the plant, it all goes in there before it becomes a painting.

It is my comfortable and sacred space where I explore with ideas and materials. Also since I paint from life, my studio is often flooded with plant cuttings. This helps me study the plants real close.

“All my work is a shared moment of joy or wonder experienced from my escapades into the forest.”

‘Mrs. and Mr Malabar Trogon perched on a Kanak Champa tree’, 12 x 18 inches each.

CLICK TO EXPAND

You would find my botanical art on my handle @onadiptrip on IG. They are priced from ₹30,000 and above depending on the size of the art. I paint anywhere from an A4 to a full imperial size. All my works are heavily detailed, and my process lets me slow down consciously so each piece takes shape organically.

In the right light, it’ll last

To display botanical watercolour illustration at home the best way is to keep it in a shaded space away from direct sunlight, and have soft focus lights for evening viewing.