Exploring the Vivid Colors of the New York Botanical Garden
As winter kicks in, I find myself looking back to end of Spring 2023. It was then that a trip to the New York Botanical Garden sparked the inspiration for a new series of oil pastel drawings and paintings.
A Visit to the New York Botanical Garden
Living near New York City opens up endless avenues for inspiration, one of which is the New York Botanical Garden in the Bronx. Accessible via a quick Metro North ride from Grand Central, it's a convenient escape to nature's wonders.
Finding Inspiration Among the Roses
In late May 2023, in search of fresh inspiration, I visited the NYBG during the peak of Rose season. The day was perfect for a garden visit – hot…yes, but with a brilliant blue sky and a decent breeze. The rose garden, in full bloom, was a sight to behold: vibrant, colorful, and dramatic. The setting even played host to a marriage proposal! Unlike my previous visits, this time I was right on schedule to witness the rose garden's floral majesty. My only regret? Not noting down the names of all the rose varieties.
Photo by Brian Robbins
When Photos Aren’t Enough
I took a ton of photos and videos, experimenting with various crops and perspectives. My goal was to encapsulate the overwhelming beauty and the memory of that experience. However, I felt the photos didn't quite capture the emotional essence as vividly as I had experienced it.
Breaking Blank Page Jitters
As July approached, it was time to gear up for new paintings for the Super Fine Art Fair. To overcome the intimidation of a blank canvas, I often start with quick, rough drawings or paintings. It's a fantastic way to loosen up and embrace the creative chaos. Read more about my experience at Superfine Art Fair.
I found perfect subjects in revisiting the photos from my last NYBG visit. The passing of time had lent a natural filter to these memories, allowing me to detach from the pressure of accurate representation and precise details, and instead focus on capturing the energy of the moment.
Supplies Used: Caran d'Ache Neopastels, Winsor & Newton Designers Gouache, Aquarelle Watercolor Paper
I selected reference shots with diverse compositions and colors, then used gouache for the initial layers, followed by oil pastels for the flowers and foliage. Each piece started with minimal and abstract floral representations, gradually evolving into more colorful and complex compositions. The colors were chosen to be electric and vibrant, echoing the way I remember them versus how they actually might be.
I also did one exploration using oil paints on a smaller canvas. I worked to simplify the forms, and create abstraction in those details I was avoiding in the pastel drawings.
Rose and the Bee - Oil on Canvas 11x14in
The Outcome and Opportunity
Alex Beguez with No 7. Prickles
I was very excited with how these drawings turned out, and the response at the Super Fine Art Fair was exciting – several found new homes!
There are still a few original drawings available, perfect for anyone looking to add a unique piece to their collection. These one-of-a-kind oil pastel and gouache drawings on heavy watercolor paper come signed with a certificate of authenticity, capturing the essence of the New York Botanical Garden.
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Each of these original drawings is the only one of its kind – once they're gone, they're gone for good. Don't miss your chance to add an exclusive piece of art to your collection.
