Margaret Best
Botanical Artist and Teacher
As a botanical artist, Margaret Best finds it important to conform to the fundamentals of the genre in order to provide the viewer with sufficient information to clearly identify the plant. But she also believes that mere scientific accuracy is not enough in the world of contemporary art.
"A portrait artist only succeeds if the character of the sitter is infused into the rendering. Likewise in plant portraiture, I aim to achieve something beyond merely a scientific classification. As I sketch, draw and paint the plant, I become totally absorbed by its unique personality and it is my goal to transfer the essence of that to the paper with strong visual appeal".
SPECIAL PAINTING TOUR ANNOUNCEMENT...
In Spring 2012 Margaret will be in a medieval village in Tuscany, Italy teaching a week-long botanical art workshop in association with QUENCH, a Toronto-based travel design group. Not only is this an inspiring setting for accomplished and aspiring botanical artists, but it is futher enhanced by gourmet meals from kitchen gardens and wine tasting with the owners of estates in Chianti country. This tour has been organized and will be accompanied by specialists in their field with many years of experience arranging tours to the region. Their mission is to provide a never-to-be-forgotten experience. For details, please contact QUENCH directly at www.quenchtravel.com/destination_italy.asp