Why I Paint Flowers: A Botanical Artist’s Story
You’re known for your vibrant florals and modern Australian botanicals. What draws you to nature as your central muse?
My love for flowers and botanicals has been deeply rooted since childhood. My aunt was a professional artist, and one of her signature styles was painting still life florals. I was constantly surrounded by her work, and I remember sitting for portraits in my ballet costumes, holding poses for what felt like hours. But it was her paintings of flowers in vases — full of energy, expression, and beauty — that truly stayed with me. Those early experiences shaped the way I saw art and definitely planted the seed for what I now create.
Over the years, travel also played a part in shaping my connection to native flora. In the early days of our jewellery business, my husband and I used to drive up the coast of Australia, visiting towns, selling tools and findings door-to-door to jewellers. It was our way of exploring the country while building relationships — some of which still last to this day. I remember the visual richness of those trips — the landscape, the wildflowers, the colours of the bush — they all left an imprint.
In the 1980s and 90s, there was a wave of Australiana art — posters, lino prints, and souvenirs that actually felt meaningful. Amongst the touristy, mass-produced clutter, I noticed pieces that captured the real essence of Australia. I always thought, I’d love to do something like that one day. But life was full — we were busy building a business and raising four children. And at the time, becoming a working artist didn’t feel like a “practical” choice.
Years later, with the rise of digital tools and small-batch printing, I saw new possibilities. I’d already painted a body of work inspired by Australian flowers — proteas, waratahs, eucalyptus, orchids — and I realised I could scan and professionally print them. But even then, I held back. I’d bought myself a beautiful pigment ink printer and didn’t touch it for four years — afraid I wouldn’t get it right.
Then COVID hit. Our jewellery business paused, and like so many, I was at home with time to reflect. I finally said to myself: Just start. I painted, printed, and listed my very first art prints and tea towels on Etsy — just ten products. When that first sale came through, I had no idea what the cha-ching sound on my phone even was! But slowly, sale after sale, I began to realise: people did love my art. They wanted colour and flowers in their homes. They were connecting to the pieces I’d made with so much heart.
From there, it grew. I transitioned from Etsy to my own site, which eventually evolved into a full Shopify store. My licensing career also took off — I signed with Spotlight and other companies to design fabric, wallpaper, and homewares. And even though the launch of those collections coincided with the start of the pandemic, it was still the beginning of something bigger.
Through it all, flowers have remained my constant. Yes, I’ve painted birds, landscapes, even done some portraiture — but it’s the florals that always call me back. There’s an endless joy in their form, their colours, their rhythm. I love painting exotic blooms, wildflowers, Australian natives — anything with personality and presence.
And I know my customers feel the same. Most are women — creatives, homemakers, mums, gift-givers — who want pieces that reflect their style and bring a touch of joy into their space. Whether they own their home or are renting, they’re creating a sanctuary that feels like them. If you love flowers and colour, I’m your artist. That’s where my heart is — and that’s who I create for. Browse all art prints and modern paintings by Kirsten Katz.
