Sarah-Jane Tweed BA (Hons) DipSBA (Dist)
Bio:
Predominantly, my passion is for depicting botanical subjects and a love of all things creative, which includes music, art, film, food, architecture or anything that really speaks to me. My preferred mediums are watercolour, ink and graphite.
Chosen specimens are closely rendered in meticulous detail, aiming to be as faithful to the subject whilst simultaneously attempting to reveal the essence of their character. I am drawn to subjects that are often overlooked. We walk past a bramble without observing the intricate surface of its leaves, or the pink blush of its flowers and only take notice when it rewards us with fruit. I firmly believe that the more mundane things can be viewed with as much intrinsic beauty as a rare orchid or grandiose plant. Everything and everyone has a place and value.
Welcoming commissions for botanical projects, it is a wonderful chance for me to discover in great detail each plant and its habitat, whilst trying to remain exacting in my rendition of the specimen.
My hope is to also make an idea or dream into something really special and memorable for my clients. Often relishing the chance to include symbolism in my work, it is important, when considering a bespoke design, to create works as individual and personal as possible.
Do you know someone with a special flower name, such as Holly, Rose, Lily or Violet? Is there a particular number, such as an Anniversary or birthday you would like to celebrate or commemorate? Is a colour meaningful to you or someone you know? Do you know of a garden, plants or even a special vase that you hold fond memories of? I am happy to work from your own photographs as a basis if you wish. A brief moment or memory can be captured permanently in the form of art and can often bring joy and solace to our lives.
Please do not hesitate to contact me via my contacts page and I will get back to you at the earliest opportunity.
Qualifications, Awards, Exhibitions:
2022
Achieved a distinction in the SBA Diploma of Botanical Art*
Received the Jantien Burggraaff Award from the SBA for the most progress
Finalist in the British Art Prize 2022
Exhibited at Plantae 2022 Exhibition at The Mall Galleries, London
Exhibited at SBA Online Winter Exhibition
Exhibited at Oxo Gallery, London for the British Art Prize
Shortlisted for the Shirley Sherwood Capannelle Wine Label Design competition. My artwork, amongst the other finalists, is now on display at the winery as part of a digital book.
Publications
Published in The Covent Gardner Magazine
Published in Artists and Illustrators Magazine, November and December
Exhibited with the Society of Botanical Artists in 2023, 2024 via online exhibitions
Plantae 2025 Anniversary Exhibited two paintings at the Mall Galleries, London
Books:
2024
Norfolk Wildlife Quiz Book - Sally Lloyd
2025
A Jewel in the Forest - Iceni Botanical Artists
Forthcoming Books for 2026:
RHS Watercolour Botanical Art: A Practical Guide for Artists - Sarah Howard
Global Sketchbook by The Society of Botanical Artists
Art Education:
BA (Hons) History of Art and Architecture, University of East Anglia
Exhibited previously at The Forum, Norwich
*SBA - Society of Botanical Artists