Issue link: https://newsleader.uberflip.com/i/198837
Sarasota News Leader October 25, 2013 Page 105 becomes a tool," he wrote, "not an objective. Something happens between us and the flowers in a garden … a communication … a rhythm understood … a song running through it all. It's a state to be in and a state to paint in. Everything," he concluded, "depends on the attitude of the artist toward his subject. It's the one great essential." For Braida, the process of joyful meditation is the one great essential. Come see and enjoy, for yourself. A TALE OF TWO BARTRAMS Cacao Tree by Olivia Braida. Contributed photo Florida was far from becoming a state when William Bartram first traveled here in the 1760s with his father, John, the Philadelphia nurseryman and soon-to-be king's botanist. George III Instructed John to identify natural resources and collect plants for the realm. Braida's finished work shows complete mastery of flower painting in different media, with attention to every detail. She imbues each subject with refinement and elegance, which suggest a French influence. "Yes," she explains, "My watercolor techniques are inspired by Gerard van Spaendonk [17461822] and the French Court tradition, with layering of glazes and washes of transparent watercolors." I asked her how she keeps her paintings fresh. "It's a meditative process," she said. "A prayer process. It enables me to stay focused. That's the total joy for me. " That reminded me of a quote from Robert Henri's classic book The Art Spirit. "Technique Olivia Braida in her studio. Contributed photo