Local artist profile: Paula Zetlein

THIS week we chat with botanical illustrator and sometimes painter Paula Zetlein, who said her drawings are reminiscent of historical illustrations, with a realistic yet dramatic style that “draws people in through intricate details”.

What motivated you to take up botanical illustration?

I’ve always had a passion for drawing, ever since I majored in painting and drawing during my Fine Arts degree at La Trobe University.

However, it wasn’t until 2018 that I started taking my pen drawings seriously.

At the time, I was juggling motherhood and working full-time as an art teacher, and I felt frustrated that I wasn’t creating my own artwork.

I was sharing my frustrations with a creative friend who was experiencing the same thing, so before going off on separate holidays we challenged each other to a drawing a day!

The challenge was to do a drawing a day and text the drawing to each other.

I’d never really used a fine liner for drawing before, so I was amazed at what I could create with it.

I quickly became hooked and as my drawings started gaining attention, I began exhibiting my work and selling limited edition prints at markets.

How would you describe your style?

My drawings are reminiscent of historical botanical illustrations, with a realistic yet dramatic style that draws people in through intricate details, capturing a moment in time.

To develop my artwork, I always work directly from my subject to truly capture its essence.

I pay particular attention to the intricate patterns of each botanical subject and immerse myself in the mark-making, losing myself in the details as I work.

Which other illustrators inspire you?

I find inspiration in botanical illustrators Celia Rosser, Philipa Nukulinksy, and Dutch artist Maurits Cornelis Escher.

I admire Celia and Philipa’s detailed and precise artwork that beautifully captures our beloved Australian native plants.

Celia was a true pioneer in the botanical world, taking field trips to draw directly from nature.

Escher, one of the greats, captivates with his dramatic work that creates optical illusions, masterfully using tone, pattern, and contrast.

What are some highlights you have from your time as an illustrator so far?

As an illustrator, I have two major highlights.

First, I was commissioned by the Australian Ballet to create original illustrations inspired by Alberta Seba’s Cabinet of Natural Curiosities, which were featured in the program for their Kunstkamer Ballet performance.

Second, I was commissioned by Beechworth Honey to produce three original illustrations of Eucalypts, which were used in a product range that includes tea towels, greeting cards, and mugs, as well as on their packaging.

How can people check out your work online?

You can check out my work online on Instagram @paulazetleinart and shop my artwork and product range online on my website: https://paulazetleinart.com.au

Do you have any exhibitions on at the moment?

I have a current exhibition of my paintings at Cantina Mexicana Restaurant as part of the EAT.DRINK.ART promotion to coincide with the Frida Kahlo exhibition at the Bendigo Art Gallery.

What would you say to young regional aspiring illustrators who are thinking of making a go of the creative life?

Keep creating and never stop learning.

Make sure to showcase your artwork.

Whether you’re seeking advice from more experienced creators or getting feedback from your followers on a new piece of artwork, social media is a valuable tool for growth and connection.