Story behind the art of Anne Pieussergues Dherbicourt

26th Annual International

American Society of Botanical Artists and Marin Art and Garden Center

Radish

Raphanus sativus

During one of my weekly strolls at the market in Saint-Germain-En-Laye, a suburb of Paris, Iris germanica (Iris x germanica) is a rhizomatous perennial from the Mediterranean region and is commonly known either as bearded iris or German bearded iris. The cultivars, with a myriad of colors, for this iris exceed 60,000 I was entranced by my discovery of exquisite radishes. Originally in search of carrots in various colors, I stumbled upon these surprisingly nuanced radishes. Their appearance was unprecedented to me, and it was impossible for me not to purchase them. 

What a fortunate opportunity to have a market in Saint-Germain-En-Laye that offers such a wide variety of organic, unique, beautiful, and delicious products.

In today's era of standardization and the creation of templates for fruits and vegetables, where everything must look alike and have the same color and taste, if they have any taste at all, how delightful to come across producers who value organic, unique, and visually appealing products precisely because of their differences, and with flavors that stand out. These are products that carry a story, the story of passionate market gardeners who fight to sustain their farms and preserve forgotten varieties.

A challenge presented itself: accurately capturing these incredible colors and unique textures while finding the ideal composition to showcase these magnificent vegetables. After numerous sketches, I carefully selected the finest profiles. I opted for the most compelling composition, arranging the radishes side by side based on their different sizes and colors. These subjects encompassed everything I adore: improbable colors, diverse textures, and intricate details.

I derive pleasure from illustrating and painting fruits and vegetables, as their ample forms and volumes yield satisfying results quickly. Yet their varied textures present a challenge each time, adding a captivating dimension to my work.

I hope you appreciate the colors and textures that enchanted me on a weekend in February.

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Read more about this artist’s work: 24th Annual