Botanical artwork requires an understanding of plant morphology – its form, shape and structure. However, you do not need to be a scientist to do this. Ms Carrie-Ann Lee, president of BASS, says that members include art lovers, beginners as well as accomplished artists.
“Some people create botanical art as a creative challenge, others want to relax, or just enjoy being in nature,” she adds.
One member, Ms Seey Seey Leong, an artist and educator, says that with botanical art, “you have to be meticulous and precise”.
“And it’s not like I can change the colour if I want to. It’s also time-consuming.”
More than 190 artworks were received from artists from 13 countries. A jury of experts selected 120 artworks for the exhibition based on scientific accuracy, artistic merit, mastery of the chosen medium and overall impact. Three artworks were judged Best of Show.
For one Best of Show winner, Mr Teo Nam Siang from BASS, this is the first accolade for his efforts.
Mr Teo, who trained as an architect, says: “I think botanical art is a perfect marriage of the natural sciences and fine art. These happen to be my two greatest loves in life, so I guess my going into botanical art comes quite naturally.”
His winning artwork is of an ant plant (Hydnophytum formicarum Jack).
On his technique, Mr Teo says: “Emphasis is placed on the play of light and shadow so that my works are never portrayed in a flat-lay manner. They are posed in a way that closely resembles the plants in their natural habitats.”
There are 80 original works at the Botanical Art Gallery (Gallop Extension) and 40 facsimiles of the works on display throughout the Gardens. There are also guided tours, artists’ demonstrations and workshops for children and adults.
FLORA OF SOUTHEAST ASIA 2022
WHERE: Singapore Botanic Gardens, Botanical Art Gallery, 7 Gallop Road
WHEN: Until Feb 15, 9am to 6pm daily; closed every last Thursday of the month
ADMISSION: Free
INFO: For information on activities, go to https://go.gov.sg/floraofsea2022
