Ilex Press New Botanical Painting

The author of this book is extremely talented, as I learnt following her work on social media. When I learnt that she was bringing a out book, I knew I had to get myself a copy! I haven’t painted in 10+ years and the way in which the projects are laid out makes it easy for beginners as well as people who have painted in watercolour before. I love all the different projects and the detail given within the instructions to achieve the beautiful botanical look. There are different levels of complexity with the projects which mean you can learn the basics and then have fun experimenting! Would definitely recommend this book to anyone, especially during these times as I’ve found painting from this book extremely therapeutic.

I found this book to be a very simplistic introduction to botanical painting. The author does admit that she is not technically competent as a botanical artist, but it is just disappointing that none of the illustrations progresses to anything other than what looks like the first stage of a botanical painting. I suppose i would take issue with the title - this isn't botanical painting, it' more like flower painting that you'd see in simple folk art.

I've bought a lot of botanical painting books, but the two I keep returning to are this one and Jean Haines' Atmospheric Flowers. I find this one clear and practical and an excellent confidence builder. In fact it makes an excellent contrast to JH's more flowing and impressionistic style. Harriet bases all her work in a careful observation of the original plant, and no matter how freely you want to paint, you'll struggle if you don't get these basics right. Another thing I really appreciate is that she is very precise about the colours she uses and how to mix them. This allows you to get started easily and inexpensively. I love to let my imagination soar, but I always warm up with Harriet's book, which is far more enjoyable that I've made it sound. You'll never progress as an artist without practice but she will get you painting recognisable and attractive flowers before long if you follow her instructions carefully. If you are an absolute watercolour novice, I can also recommend her YouTube tutorials. If they don't sell you on this book, nothing will.

I have followed Harriet on Instagram for some time and always wanted to have a go at some of the floral watercolours she makes look so easy, yet I've not really known where to begin.This book is broken down beautifully starting with some basic brushstroke exercises, colour theory and arrangement styles, going right through to some really wonderful step by step guides for specific flowers and projects. I'm a relative novice to watercolour, certainly to this style. This book breaks everything down, making the most beautiful flowers and projects accessible, with lots of scope to use the principles you learn when breaking out of the projects in into your own work. I'm sure if you are already a proficient watercolourist you will also learn something of this style, and would also benefit from this book.I'd recommend the book on looks alone, each page is a delight, let alone what it has taught me, and the confidence it has given me with my watercolours. I'm definitely glad I bought this book!

This book is brilliant. Easy to follow step by step instructions and guided projects which are backed up by videos on YouTube so if there's something you don't quite understand in the book you can get more help with it. The videos are as pleasant to watch and follow as the book. Neither overwhelm with too much information or complication which makes learning botanical watercolours a very relaxing and enjoyable experience. I'd say the book would be great for a complete beginner or for someone like me who has tinkered a little with watercolour flowers and plants but just needs some tips and guidance on how to improve their style and get a more professional look. I took ages looking at lots of different books on this subject and I am glad I chose this one.