Botanical Artist & Tutor
Celebrating the beauty and intricate detail of the natural world through botanical art, illustration and teaching.
Ruth Wharrier is a botanical artist, natural history illustrator and teacher based in Suffolk.
Through painting, drawing and teaching, Ruth explores the extraordinary detail and beauty of the natural world. Her work is grounded in close observation, botanical knowledge and traditional painting techniques, with a particular interest in plants, their structure and their place within the wider landscape.
Ruth works in watercolour, gouache, pen and ink, coloured pencil and printmaking. She also creates bespoke botanical designs for harpsichord soundboards and undertakes commissions.
Alongside her studio practice, Ruth runs botanical art workshops and courses, helping students of all abilities develop their observational drawing, painting and botanical skills.
School of Botanical Art
Develop your eye. Strengthen your drawing. Paint with confidence.
Ruth’s School of Botanical Art offers workshops, courses and specialist tuition for people who want to develop their skills in botanical drawing and painting.
Teaching combines practical demonstrations, individual guidance and working directly from plant material. Students are encouraged to develop their own way of working while learning the traditional skills that underpin botanical illustration.
Whether you are starting out or looking to take your work to a more advanced level, Ruth creates a relaxed, supportive environment in which to learn.
Botanical Art & Commissions
Ruth’s botanical artwork combines close observation, botanical knowledge and a love of colour, form and detail. Working in watercolour, gouache, pen and ink and other traditional media, she creates original paintings and illustrations inspired by the beauty and character of plants and the natural world. Ruth also welcomes commissions, creating bespoke botanical artwork, working closely with each client to create a unique piece of art to treasure.
Harpsichord Decoration
Ruth creates bespoke hand-painted decorations for harpsichord soundboards, combining her botanical expertise with traditional decorative painting techniques. Working closely with harpsichord makers and clients, she develops individual designs inspired by flowers, foliage, birds and other natural motifs, creating beautifully detailed artwork that complements the character and craftsmanship of each unique instrument.