Carol Wong

We are delighted to share some wonderful work from Carol Wong, a student currently studying on our Botanical Painting Diploma.

Carol recently completed a Fruit and Vegetables assignment, and her PDF submission was outstanding. Not only did she include her beautifully detailed paintings of a tomato, strawberry, and rosebud, but she also added research, notes on her process, and reflections on the difficulties she faced along the way.

Her study of the tomato shows a glossy, vibrant surface with careful attention to highlights and the juicy interior. The strawberry was a particular challenge – with its complex reflections, tiny seeds, and uneven texture – but Carol persevered and achieved an incredible result. Finally, her rosebud captures the fragile, textured beauty of a dried bloom, showing the passage of time with delicate tonal control.

Tomato – Glossy and Juicy
I chose the tomato for its contrast between the shiny skin and juicy interior. I used soft shading and highlights to capture the smooth, reflective surface. Inside, I used watercolor blending to show the translucent, seed-filled flesh. The goal was to express its fresh, vibrant texture and the juicy softness hidden beneath the skin.
Strawberry – Textured and Reflective
I chose to draw a strawberry because I wanted to challenge myself. Its form is more complex, featuring
many reflections, tiny seeds, and uneven surfaces. The shadows are intricate and layered. Compared to
the tomato, the strawberry’s reflections are sharp and distinct, while the tomato’s are soft and subtle. This strong visual contrast is the reason I selected these two fruits for my assignment.
Dried Rosebud – Fragile and Textured
I found a dried rosebud in my garden and was inspired by its delicate, aged beauty. The petals were curled and brittle, with a textured surface. I used fine lines and cross-hatching to show the wrinkles and fading form. The drawing aims to capture a sense of time passing and the fragile charm of dried flowers.

Carol’s PDF is a wonderful example of how much can be learned and discovered during the diploma. She documents her process thoroughly, sharing the materials she used and the way she overcame obstacles with patience and determination. It is clear she has gained not only skill but also confidence in her botanical illustration journey.

We hope you enjoy seeing a selection of Carol’s work here. We think you will agree it is an inspiring example of what can be achieved on the course.

Congratulations to Carol on her excellent progress – we are excited to see more of her studies in the future!

👉 Interested in learning more? Take a look at our Botanical Painting Diploma, tutored by the wonderful Gráinne Murphy.

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