The Art of Plant Families

Botanical Paintings by Wendy Hollender

Plants share family traits, just as people do. Some have square stems, some curl into tendrils, and others produce flowers, fruits, or scents that connect them to related species. Through detailed botanical illustrations, artist Wendy Hollender reveals these relationships in ways that are both scientific and approachable, inviting visitors to look more closely at the plants that shape our lives and ecosystems.


As a child, Wendy Hollender discovered the magic of plants by picking sweet peas and strawberries in a family garden. That early experience sparked a lifelong fascination with the natural world, one that continues through her botanical illustrations today.


Working directly from real specimens, Hollender combines careful observation with artistic expression to explore the beauty, diversity, and interconnectedness of the plant world. Inspired by her book The Album of Plant Families: An Illustrated Exploration of Nature’s Beauty and Bounty, this exhibition celebrates curiosity, discovery, and the many ways art can deepen our understanding of nature.

About the Artist

Wendy Hollender is a botanical artist, illustrator, author, and educator whose work combines scientific accuracy with a deep appreciation for nature. Her illustrations have appeared in books, museums, gardens, and educational institutions across the country.