STORY BEHIND THE ART OF SHARRON O'NEIL

18th Annual International

American Society of Botanical Artists at The Horticultural Society of New York

Sunflower Seedpod

Helianthus annuus

Last fall, while visiting a friend who has a garden at the edge of the Snake River in Idaho, I spotted this large sunflower seed pod among the few plants remaining after a long hot summer. Its intricacy and faded glory appealed to me. My friend saw no value in the drab old thing, and was happy to let me take it away.

I found such beauty in this seedpod’s subtle colors, pattern of the seeds in their little pockets, and convoluted folds. This was an interesting, intricate and very challenging subject. Fortunately, I enjoy a challenge. As I worked, I kept thinking that it is truly miraculous that a plant can grow to such a giant size in a single season from just one tiny seed. How wonderful!

To achieve those subtle colors, first I lay down a very light coat of neutral tones. Then I added slightly darker tones to define shadows and shapes, and then carefully and lightly layered other colors over the pale base painting. These colors were not only brown, but also purples, greens, and rusty oranges. I mixed some of the colors with various brown pigments, but layered others directly on the painting. To finish, I filled in the very darkest shadows with cool browns and brightened the foreground areas with oranges, golds and reds. 

 Lately, I have been drawn more and more to unusual subjects which might initially be considered unattractive. Revealing the unconventional beauty to be found in ordinary unappreciated subjects is very enjoyable.

 My friend hasn’t seen this painting yet. I think she may be surprised. 

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Read more about this artist's work: Following in the Bartrams' Footsteps