Artist Spotlight: Dr. Tanya Scharaschkin

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Image: 'Elaeoarpus grandis', Tanya Scharaschkin

Dr Tanya Scharaschkin is a botanist, artist and teacher. Tanya is intrigued by patterns in nature and is keen to share the beauty of plants that she sees at different scales as a botanist. Her artwork combines traditional botanical art with photography and digital art using a variety of media. She hopes her art will inspire others to not only admire plants but also develop an understanding and appreciation for the biology of plants.  

Tanya was born and brought up in Pakistan. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Botany and Zoology and a Master’s in Science degree in Zoology from Pakistan, followed by a Master’s degree in Vertebrate Paleontology and a PhD in Plant Systematics from the US. Much of her academic career was spent at Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane. She is now a free-lance botanist and artist, living and working in Collinsvale, Tasmania. Most of Tanya’s projects incorporate a botanical theme, although she has designed, made and exhibited mathematically-motivated quilts. Her artwork is held in private collections, in Australia and overseas.

Tanya is an enthusiastic and well-organised instructor. Her lectures, talks and workshops enable the general public to understand scientific concepts. Tanya conducts a variety of workshops as a way of sharing her enthusiasm for plants and bringing art and science together. 

Tanya is running two new workshops at our Canberra location this term.

Understanding Flowers is a comprehensive look at the structure and anatomy of flowers, including violas, prostanthera, nasturtium, crassula, roses, pea flowers, daisies and others that are available in flower at this time of the year. Students will also have the opportunity to create a beautiful ink drawing inspired by the elements of a flower. 

Ukrainian Egg Dyeing is a look at the traditional method 'Psyanka.' The word pysanka comes from the verb pysaty, "to write" or "to inscribe," as the designs are not painted on, but written (inscribed) with beeswax. Our emphasis will be on learning the techniques to create dyed eggs, and decorating two eggs with traditional Ukrainian folk patterns and designs using a wax-resist method.  This will enable you to then create your own designs inspired by Australian native flowers or leaves in your own time. 

If you're interested or would like to find out more you can find both of these classes in the 'Canberra Workshops' section of our website!