STORY BEHIND THE ART OF ROSE PELLICANO

19th Annual International

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

Rainbow beets

Beta vulgaris

Choosing a subject to paint is not very difficult for me. I live in a somewhat rural area surrounded by a beautiful natural environment. What attracts me to plants and flowers is their color, the structure and possibilities for composition. The subject also has to present me with a challenge in trying to capture its character and beauty. 

I found the “Rainbow Beets” at the local Westhampton Beach farmer’s market. As soon as I saw them I knew that I had to paint them. Their colors ranged from subtle mauves, orange, bright magentas to deep purples. These colors were reflected in their stems as well. The challenge in painting this subject was in trying to portray the roughness and irregularity of their outer layer and their large leaves with all their imperfections. I used several layers of color as well as shadow mixes to enhance their form. With respect to composition, I placed the beets on a large piece of white paper and arranged their leaves. I wanted them to seem freshly picked from the field. 

What I hope to convey in my work is that you can find beauty in the most humble botanical subjects if you look closely. As botanical artists we all appreciate this concept but it is our skill and artistry that draws others to see the beauty of nature.

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