Botanical Artist Daleen Roodt Wins Gold for South Africa at RHS Botanical Art Show

South African botanical artist Daleen Roodt wins a gold medal and Best Artwork on Show at the prestigious RHS Botanical Art Show in London, showcasing indigenous orchids and their pollinators in exquisite detail. South Africa continues to shine on the global floral stage with another significant achievement, thanks to the exceptional talent of botanical artist Daleen Roodt. Following the country’s triumphant display at the Chelsea Flower Show, Roodt has secured a gold medal and the Best Artwork on Show award at the RHS Botanical Art Show, held at the esteemed Saatchi Gallery in London.

The RHS Botanical Art Show is renowned as the world’s premier exhibition of botanical art, attracting top artists from across the globe. Participation in this prestigious event is a rigorous process. Artists must first gain approval to exhibit, followed by a five-year period dedicated to preparing their collection of six artworks under a specific theme. The pieces are then meticulously judged by a panel of seven experts, based on criteria such as botanical accuracy, technical skill, color reproduction, attention to detail, and aesthetic appeal.

Daleen Roodt’s journey to this crowning moment was marked by intensive study and dedication. After receiving the Dawn Jolliffee Art Bursary from the RHS Bursaries Committee, she spent three flowering seasons researching indigenous orchids and their pollinators in their natural habitats across three different provinces in South Africa. This fieldwork, combined with nearly 1,200 hours of painstaking effort, culminated in her stunning watercolour paintings. One of her standout pieces, a massive orchid painting, alone required an astonishing 360 hours to complete.

Roodt’s work stood out not just for its technical precision but also for its vivid portrayal of South Africa’s unique flora. Her exhibit, featuring indigenous orchids and their pollinators, hung alongside masterpieces from artists hailing from Australia, Italy, Japan, Korea, the USA, and the UK. Despite the intense competition, her exceptional skill and dedication earned her the top honors, making her the only South African artist to participate and triumph at the show.

The recognition of Daleen Roodt’s artwork at such a prestigious level is a testament to her artistic prowess and the rich biodiversity of South Africa. Her achievements not only highlight her personal talent but also bring global attention to the country’s unique botanical heritage.