I can’t remember exactly how or when I found artist and blogger Anne Butera on the web—it’s been years now! But I do know this, I always look forward to Anne’s calm and thoughtful presence in my inbox. Her ‘Joy Letters’ are aptly named.
I usually wait till Sunday mornings to open her newsletter. That way I know I’ll have time to give it the attention it deserves, because it’s always stuffed with oh so many interesting links and rabbit holes for me to explore. I’ve been introduced to many new artists, tried dozens of delicious recipes, explored all kinds of art techniques, and even forged new and dear friendships, all because of Anne! She’s been a constant a source of inspiration and motivation for me over the years. I honestly count Anne as one of my personal Sheros.
So, I was thrilled to learn earlier this summer that Anne has decided to launch her very own Substack, In an Artist’s Garden. It’s sure to be filled with all the botanical goodness and joy that always springs forth from Anne’s creative pursuits.
Of course, as the name implies, Anne credits her garden for much of this bounty. The garden is, and always has been, Anne’s most ardent muse. It acts as both a grounding presence and a wellspring for creative magic and is clearly present in her beautiful and inspired work.
This week, I’m very excited to be able to bring you both Anne and her garden!
In this conversation, Anne shares her own personal story about how she came to know and love the plant world and how it inspires her work daily.
Plus, Anne takes us on a very special tour of her colorful, incredibly charming garden. Along the way, you’ll see some of Anne’s beautiful art and hear interesting stories about the flowers that grow there, including her very ‘naughty’ apple trees!
I know you are going to love getting to know Anne and her beautiful summer garden—which is so clearly a reflection of her own generous and creative spirit.
And there’s more…Anne has generously offered a *special bonus* for Flora+Forage Insiders! See details below!
Anne Butera
Anne Butera is a self-taught artist works primarily in watercolor but also loves challenging herself to try new things, savoring the freedom and joy she finds within the pages of her sketchbooks. She strives to seek out and celebrate life’s little joys and daily graces in her life, her writing and her art.
Anne is passionate about encouraging others to embrace their creativity and discover their joy. Her art and writing have been published in multiple magazines and in the book Botanica. She writes the blog My Giant Strawberry and the Substack In an Artist’s Garden and she teaches in person and online.
Interview
In this interview you will learn about:
Where and when Anne’s passion for plants and flowers first developed
The imaginative childhood story behind her blog’s name, My Giant Strawberry
How Anne found the courage to pursue her creative dreams as an adult
How Anne’s garden might describe her and her creative spirit
What kind of book her garden would be if we tried to find it in the library
the muse that inspires Anne’s life and work
The stories behind many of the interesting, heirloom flowers and plants growing in Anne’s garden
Anne’s “naughty” apple trees!
Rather listen than watch? Click here for downloadable Audio Version & Transcript
Learn More About Anne & Follow Along
Anne’s Substack: In An Artist’s Garden
Anne’s Website: My Giant Strawberry
Anne’s Classes & Resource Page
Special Note: In the interview we talk about Anne’s dear friend Dana Barbieri—who is also on substack. Here is a link to Dana’s substack. Check her out!
*BONUS* for Flora+Forage Insiders
Great News Insiders!
Anne is giving Flora & Forage Insiders access to one of her special classes, flower pounding! Have you ever tried it?
This is such a fun activity, and the results are positively delightful! In this video Anne also offers special tips to ensure you have excellent results.
See below for details!