STORY BEHIND THE ART OF ANNA SUPRUNENKO

21st Annual International

American Society of Botanical Artists at Wave Hill

Magnolia Alexandrina

Magnolia x soulangeana 'Alexandrina'

The more I draw botanical portraits, the more I note that objects choose me, not the other way around. Magnolias have charmed me like they have charmed many other botanical artists.

This branch was painted in one breath. It is my first impression of the spring blossoming of the spectacular magnolia trees in Ljubljana, Slovenia. At first glance, there are just different stages of blossoming in the picture: from a humble closed bud to a big fragrant flower. However, I discover other meanings in this artwork. The closed bud represents the evoking emotional impulse, the exciting feelings and the idea of a new work. The bloom on the other side of the branch is the symbol of creativity, a new piece of art that is open to the viewer and to the world. The strong, sculptural form of the branch encompasses the resourcefulness of the creator.

I have enjoyed exploring these flowers and capturing my feelings for them. I have tried to express the lightness and plasticity of each petal. Magenta is one of my favorite pigments. I have used quinacridone magenta and cobalt blue in this picture. I particularly like a smooth transition from white to intense magenta color. I have used both wet brush and dry brush techniques, which have allowed me to show the texture of all surfaces accurately. 

I really hope that the viewer will appreciate the beauty of this delicate and gorgeous magnolia tree.

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Read more about this artist’s work: 20th Annual International