The Illuminated Herbarium Triptych combines drawing, plants and illuminated manuscripts. It consists of a growing library of flowers that surround Coryndon’s Sussex studio, delicately created from cut and formed paper. Each original specimen is needle etched, gilded in 23.5 ct gold leaf, and held in place with brass pins.

Sophie Coryndon combines traditional decorative arts techniques with modern innovation. Material and process driven, she employs multiple disciplines including bronze casting, painting, embroidery, and sculpture to capture elements of the natural world, rooted in historical aesthetics. “Basically, I’m drawn to craftsmanship in any form, especially dying crafts,” says the artist, “But I like to take those things and re-imagine them.”

Inspired by close observation, Coryndon’s work illuminates what is often overlooked.  Her enthusiasm for the organic intricacies ever-present in the macrocosm drives her tenacious ambition to transfigure the microscopic into the monumental. This practice of maximalism fosters her desire to, as she states “take things further, make them larger, make them grander, right to the point of lunacy. Insane beauty is what I’m ultimately after.”

Available as individual pieces or grouped by commission. Shown are Cleavers, Dock and Aqualegia.

Shepherds Purse, Ladies Smock, Knapweed, Clover, Buttercup, Campion, Ragged Robin,Groundsel, Forget-me-not, Chicory, Honesty, Vetch will be available by commission.