Featured Artworks
Asclepias Species: Milkweeds of the U.S. Great Plains Region
More than 20 species of milkweed, Asclepias (Apocynaceae), are native to the Great Plains region in the central US. Milkweeds support a wide range of pollinators, including the monarch butterfly for which they are the exclusive larval host. Although invasive in other regions of the world, they play an important role in many U.S. ecosystems. Recent decline in milkweed distribution threatens the survival of monarch populations, highlighting the impact of habitat loss and climate change on interdependent species.
By illustrating the unique and diverse characteristics of milkweeds, I hoped to inspire conservation of native species in U.S. natural habitats as well as inclusion of appropriate regional natives in home gardens in the U.S.
I illustrated six species of milkweed in watercolor on Kelmscott vellum for the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) Botanical Art and Photography Show at the Saatchi Gallery in London, UK, June-August 2026. I was honored and thrilled to be awarded a Gold Medal from the RHS Judging Panel for the series of paintings!
Watercolor on Kelmscott Vellum
Each painting 14 × 17”
Chanticleer
Pyrus calleryana
There is a mature Chanticleer pear tree hanging over my garden fence, sharing its beautiful spring flowers and richly colored fall foliage. The leaves turn and drop late in the year and, due to their leathery nature, persist on the ground long after other fallen leaves have begun to decay. Often in late autumn, when I’m outside cleaning gardens or sitting in the sun with my dog enjoying the season, I find myself picking up a pear tree leaf and thinking ‘Oh, this one would be fun to paint’. And then another catches my eye and so on, with me not able to choose among them. This leaf however caught and held my interest. The combination of multiple colors and the damaged areas seemed a wonderfully intriguing subject.
Inspired by Rory McEwan’s leaf studies, I chose to paint this leaf at life size in watercolor on Kelmscott vellum. The challenges involved preserving highlights to accurately depict the leathery texture of the leaf, and replicating the nuanced color variations from deep autumnal reds and browns to greenish gold and subtle touches of lavender blue. The dark edges where the leaf is torn add to the drama of this leaf’s story.
I was delighted to hear that my little leaf study had won Honorable Mention at the American Society of Botanical Artists 28th International Exhibition in 2025!
Watercolor on Kelmscott Vellum
3 ½ x 4”
Quaking Aspen
Populus tremuloides
The quaking aspen tree, found in the eastern foothills of the Colorado Rocky Mountains, displays a brilliant golden hue during fall. This scientific botanical illustration, capturing the seasonal life cycle of the tree, involved detailed research and study. To ensure accuracy, I closely examined numerous specimens over a period of two years. Detailed dissections of both male and female flowers unveiled their unique characteristics. Extensive sketches, precise drawings, color analysis, and composition planning preceded the commencement of the painting.
‘Quaking Aspen’ was shown in the Society of Botanical Artists (SBA) Plantae 2024 exhibition, and I was honored to be awarded the SBA’s Certificate of Botanical Merit for the painting. The exhibition is available for viewing on the website www.sbaonlinegallery2024.oess1.uk.
Watercolor on Paper
14 x 17”
Midsummer
Penstemon x mexicali 'Pike's Peak Purple', Crocosmia x crocosmiiflora 'George Davison', Scrofularia macrantha, Kniphofia 'Mango Popsicle', Lavandula angustifolia 'Beezee Dark Blue', Lavandula x intermedia 'Niko' PHENOMENAL
In midsummer, my garden is vibrant with various plants in shades of green and colorful flowers, creating a joyful atmosphere. Painting this project felt like working on six different artworks. I carefully observed and sketched each flower, experimented with colors for each plant, and painted them on lightly-veined, classic vellum to capture their vivid tones. Using a dry brush technique and small brushes, I painted each plant with many layers to bring out intricate details and lifelike colors. Through this 'Midsummer' painting, I aim to share the happiness of my summer garden with viewers.
I was deeply honored and thrilled when 'Midsummer' was chosen as the featured cover image for the December 2023 edition of The Botanical Artist, the journal of the American Association of Botanical Artists. In addition, this painting was recently selected for the Society of Botanical Artists Plantae 2024 exhibition.
Watercolor on Mounted Vellum
16 x 13” (22 x 19” framed)
