Carolyn Cohen

Major themes in my artwork are the architecture of plants and the complex, abstract patterns evident in their natural forms, what I call "environmental calligraphy." When I first see a subject in its habitat, I use the live subject matter to develop a botanically accurate detailed drawing from which I create a hand painted etching or a watercolor. The etched image is made using traditional techniques, hand printed, and then combined with watercolor painting. My final artwork becomes a portrait of the individual plant, its movement, rhythms, and colors, and also a record of place and memory. Influences on my work include music, dance and nature as depicted in other cultures, including Persian miniatures, illuminated manuscripts and contemporary abstract paintings. Our fast world today demands appreciation of our personal connection to the peace and solitude of the plant world. I hope that my artwork will encourage people to take time to look closely for elements of beauty, serenity and strength in nature.

Major themes in my artwork are the architecture of plants and the complex, abstract patterns evident in their natural forms, what I call "environmental calligraphy." When I first see a subject in its habitat, I use the live subject matter to develop a botanically accurate detailed drawing from which I create a hand painted etching or a watercolor. The etched image is made using traditional techniques, hand printed, and then combined with watercolor painting. My final artwork becomes a portrait of the individual plant, its movement, rhythms, and colors, and also a record of place and memory. Influences on my work include music, dance and nature as depicted in other cultures, including Persian miniatures, illuminated manuscripts and contemporary abstract paintings. Our fast world today demands appreciation of our personal connection to the peace and solitude of the plant world. I hope that my artwork will encourage people to take time to look closely for elements of beauty, serenity and strength in nature.