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3 Tips for Keeping a Sketchbook with Nicoline Mann

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Botanicals & Landscape by Nicoline Mann Hi, I’m Nicoline. I'm an artist deeply inspired by the natural world, especially animals and birds, and the fleeting beauty of small, precious moments. My sketchbook practice is an extension of my love for these connections—it’s where I explore, experiment, and savour the joys of creating without pressure. I don’t confine myself to one sketchbook or one style of book. I have several on the go at any time, each serving a unique purpose. My tools vary depending on what feels right for the page or moment. I use everything from dollar-store sketchbooks prepped with gesso to high-quality watercolour books. There’s no limit to what we can create when we let go of expectations and allow ourselves to explore freely. Sketchbook pages by Nicoline Mann Sketching My World My sketchbooks are a collection of snapshots from my life and the natural world. On my forest walks with my dog, I document the tiny flowers growing along the forest floor or the bi...
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Edith Holden: The Edwardian Botanical Artist Behind "The Country Diary of an Edwardian Lady"

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The Country Diary of an Edwardian Lady , pages 103-104, photo by Laura Watson, 2024 The name Edith Holden may not have been widely recognized in her time, but today, she is celebrated as one of the most beloved Edwardian botanical artists. Her work, The Country Diary of an Edwardian Lady , beautifully captures the flora and fauna of early 20th-century England, inspiring modern-day nature enthusiasts, artists, and environmentalists alike. This article delves into Holden's life, her artistic style, and the enduring legacy of her work. Early Life and Education Edith Holden was born on September 26, 1871, in Kings Norton, Birmingham, England. She grew up in a creative and supportive family, with both of her parents encouraging artistic pursuits. Holden's artistic journey began at the Birmingham School of Art, where she studied painting and illustration. Here, she developed the skills that would later define her career as a botanical artist. The late 19th and early 20th centuries we...
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Why Do Most Plant Family Names End in "-aceae"?

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