2nd Session of Botanical Artists in FGY Christchurch
On 6th March, 8 members of The Botanical Art Society of New Zealand Inc (BASNZ) carried out their second session of painting in Fo Guang Yuan (FGY) Art Gallery Christchurch. They were Judee Clarke, Ann Clay, Irene Blair, Lorraine Thompson, Karen Atherton, Elizabeth Yuill-Proctor, Michelle Watson and Suzy Abbott. Suzy Abbott’s art pieces had been exhibited in FGY Art Gallery Christchurch recently and had received overwhelming response. She has since established a good rapport with the Gallery.
In addition to using real flower as painting object, the artists also resorted to capturing the objects with tablet, magnifying them and painting them in greater details so that the object painted would be closer to their natural state. In many instances, authentic facets of such objects as peeled onion, dried leaf and blooming flower would be portrayed in the paintings. The comfortable environment provided by FGY Art Gallery Christchurch has enabled the artists to paint in a relaxed atmosphere, producing attractive and lively art pieces.
For the purpose of promoting and nurturing its members’ interests in Botanical Art, the BASNZ conducts regular art classes, seminars and workshops so that its members can share and exchange their creative experiences and in the process improve their skills. Annually, the BASNZ, in cooperation with Christchurch Botanic Garden, will hold a grand Botanical Art Exhibition. This Exhibition not only allows BASNZ members to exhibit their works but also acts as a platform for them to gain insight into the works of artists from other organisations. To enable them to perform well in the Annual Botanical Art Exhibition, the BASNZ members treasure every opportunity to attend the Art Classes conducted and always put in their best efforts to acquire new skills.