Sarah-Jane Tweed SBAF BA (Hons) DipSBA (Dist)
Bio:
I hold a degree in History of Art and Architecture but my passion for practical art has always been drawing and painting. From an early age, I was drawn to watercolour, and loved the variegated tulips and irises from my family garden. Returning to painting after many years, I decided to take further steps to specialise in Botanical Art by embarking upon the Diploma for the Society of Botanical Artists.
In 2022, I graduated from the SBA with Distinction and received the Jantien Burgraaff Progress Award. I have been a finalist in the British Art Prize, was shortlisted for the Shirley Sherwood Capannelle Winery Competition and have exhibited some work in London Exhibitions. Artwork has also been published in various national and International magazines.
Most of my chosen specimens are closely rendered in detail. Through many watercolour layers and dry brush techniques, I aim to be as faithful to these subjects as possible, whilst trying to reveal the essence of their character. I gravitate toward botanical subjects that are often overlooked, such as a humble red onion. 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. Through Botanical Art, I attempt to elevate even the most mundane of subjects. However, I also seek unusual textures or intricate patterns in nature, such as those found on the Snakeshead fritillary.
In February 2024, I was elected a member of the IBA (Iceni Botanical Artists). Later that year I was delighted to have been accepted as an SBA Fellow.
I am now also developing my practice through the medium of ink. I hold workshops locally, take part in various markets, have a website showcasing originals and prints, and welcome commissions throughout the year.
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 and Publications:
2026
RHS Watercolour Botanical Art (book) Authors: Sarah Howard and Rachel Pedder-Smith
- published artwork
Forthcoming Exhibitions:
A Celebration of Botanical Art Exhibition, Anteros Arts, Norwich - Iceni Botanical Artists - 19th - 31st May
'Inspired' Exhibition - Becket's Chapel, Wymondham - Eaton Arts Collective - 16th- 21st June
Royal Norfolk Show - 24th-25th June
2025
SBA Plantae exhibition, Mall Galleries - exhibited 2 works
Fullers Mill Garden: A Jewel in the Forest (book by IBA) - published artwork
SBA Plantae exhibition, Mall Galleries - exhibited 2 works
'Inspired' Exhibition - Becket's Chapel, Wymondham - Eaton Arts
2024
SBA Fellow acceptance
SBA Plantae exhibition (online)
IBA in Bloom exhibition, Iceni Botanical Artists, Becket's Chapel, Wymondham
Elected a member of the IBA (Iceni Botanical Artists)
2023
SBA Plantae exhibition - exhibited 2 works
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:
2026 RHS Watercolour Botanical Art (book) - published artwork
2025 A Jewel in the Forest - Iceni Botanical Artists
2024 Norfolk Wildlife Quiz Book - Sally Lloyd - Cover Illustration
Forthcoming Books for 2027:
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