Art exhibition to open in Norwich devoted to plants

The group was formed in 2010 and has 30 members across Norfolk, Suffolk, and Cambridgeshire.

Their work is devoted to the plant world, in many different ways, and their painting styles vary.

While some prefer botanical illustration and love the scientifically demanding precision and accuracy, as demonstrated by the classic 18th-century illustrators, others enjoy looser and freer representations.

Crab Apples by Reinhild Raistrick of Iceni Botanical Artists (Image: Supplied)

Watercolour, oil, acrylic, graphite, and coloured pencil are all used by the artists.

In 2022, an invitation came from the popular Fullers Mill Garden, near Bury St Edmunds, to paint the plants that were the favourites of the garden creator and designer Bernard Tickner.

The IBA artists came together after COVID to promote and paint the rare and special plants which grow at Fullers.

Paeonia Mascula by Bridgette James of Iceni Botanical Artists (Image: Supplied)

The original plant list numbered 72 to include trees, shrubs, perennials, bulbs, garden vistas, fauna, and insects.

Then the list expanded to more than 160, which demonstrated the belief, commitment, and pleasure experienced by the contributing 25 artists.

The three stages of the project were skilfully managed by the chairman, the late Tina Bone, and she also designed, edited, and published the final book Fullers Mill Garden – A Jewel in the Forest with text by Rod Lewis and published in 2025.

Hosta “June” by Isobel Bartholomew (Image: Supplied)

The annual exhibitions have been held across the region and members are looking forward to opening in Norwich.

Their work will be on display at a perfect setting – the much-loved Anteros Arts Foundation on Fye Bridge Street, which has been described as a charming rabbit warren of Grade II Heritage-listed buildings and is a charity dedicated to the education and promotion of the arts across East Anglia.