Field Notes: Botanical Illustration Reimagined for Modern Audiences

Seraphina Sol’s project bridges art, science, and conservation through detailed plant studies.

Botanical illustration, once essential for documenting plant species, is experiencing a thoughtful revival through Seraphina Sol’s Field Notes. This project draws inspiration from herbaria and natural history museums, focusing on the subtle details of plant life—such as the veins of a leaf or the delicate patterns on a moth’s wings. By combining traditional ink drawing with digital refinement, Field Notes offers a contemporary take on a classic art form, making it accessible in both print and digital formats.

Each illustration in the collection is meticulously rendered, beginning with hand-drawn sketches in ink. These are then digitally enhanced to capture the depth and clarity often lost in preserved specimens. The final artworks are printed on handmade, recycled cotton paper embedded with wildflower seeds, underscoring the project’s commitment to environmental sustainability and conservation.

Field Notes stands out for its dual focus on scientific accuracy and artistic design. The project not only serves as an educational tool for academic audiences but also captivates the general public through exhibitions in museums and botanical gardens across Canada. Since its inception in 2020, the collection has been widely showcased, fostering dialogue about the importance of biodiversity and the need to protect native plant species.

Research for Field Notes involved extensive fieldwork, including specimen collection and close observation under magnification. This rigorous process ensures that each illustration captures the true essence of its subject, even when working from dried, pressed plants that have lost their original texture. Overcoming these challenges required a blend of careful observation and creative interpretation, resulting in images that are both scientifically valuable and visually compelling.

The project’s innovative approach has garnered industry recognition, earning the Iron A' Design Award in 2025 for its integration of best practices and technical excellence. By presenting botanical specimens through both scientific and creative lenses, Field Notes encourages viewers to connect with the natural world and reflect on the importance of conservation.

Field Notes by Seraphina Sol exemplifies how art and science can intersect to foster environmental awareness. Through detailed illustration and thoughtful presentation, the project invites audiences to look closer at the natural world and consider their role in its preservation.