Original artwork description:

Painting flowers is a deceptively difficult task — and often an underappreciated one. When I paint portraits, I do so with ease and pleasure. Achieving a strong likeness comes naturally to me; it’s simply drawing, but in color. The process is steady, the rewards tangible. A portrait subject doesn’t change and wilt in three days. Plus the compensation is significantly higher.

But flowers? Flowers are an entirely different pursuit. A sprint, not a marathon. An intense, time-sensitive challenge. Painting flowers tests your skill at full throttle. You give it your all — then step back, wait for the paint to dry, and assess: this passage works; that one fell short.

Painting flowers keeps you honest. It’s a quiet competition — sometimes even with fellow artists. You show up at a group exhibition with florals and say, “Here’s what I can do. And you?” Some might dismiss it as a lightweight genre. But in truth, it’s a kind of litmus test — a measure of precision, spontaneity, and artistic clarity.

For me, florals are not just a subject — they’re a proving ground. A way to sharpen the eye, train the hand, and spark delight.

Materials used:

Oil on canvas

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