FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

For inquiries, project proposals, and licensing questions, please contact me at a@annafarba.com

How do you work? What’s your illustration process?

I start each botanical or food illustration with a light pencil sketch, then build up layers of hand‑painted watercolor to achieve depth, botanical accuracy, and expressive color. Artworks are digitized using high‑resolution scanning (600 DPI+), refined in Photoshop, and delivered in your desired file formats (TIFF, PSD, PNG, etc.). Learn more about custom botanical illustration.

Do you paint from references or life sketches?

Yes—while I enjoy field sketching in my botanical sketchbook, I rely heavily on photo references, botanical plant profiles from trusted sources, and my personal botanical Reference Library to capture fine details in foliage, flowers, and texture. Vintage botanical guides also spark creative direction for personal work. Some clients provide their references, but it’s not required to start a project with me.

How much do illustrations cost and how long do they take?

  • Time: Small botanical pieces may take 2 hours; highly detailed paintings can reach 20+ hours and beyond.

  • Pricing: Costs vary based on illustration size, subject complexity (number of plants/objects), licensing terms, and deadlines. I’m happy to provide a custom quote—please contact me or request a quote via email.

What art materials and equipment do you use?

  • Paper: Hot‑pressed and cold‑pressed cotton paper from Arches, Fabriano, Hahnemühle

  • Watercolors: Artist-grade brands like Schmincke Horadam, Sennelier, Daniel Smith

  • Tools: Sakura Pigma Micron pens, Palomino Blackwing pencils, Escoda Perla brushes

  • Digital: Canon EOS M camera, CanonScan LiDE 220 scanner,

  • Software: Adobe Photoshop & Illustrator

What’s your background? How did you become a freelance illustrator?

I hold a degree in Graphic Design, specialized in illustration, and have gradually built a career focusing on botanical and nature-inspired artwork. I transitioned over time to working full‑time out of my Vancouver studio and now create work for clients worldwide. Here’s a blog post on how I became a Freelance Watercolor Illustrator.

What inspires your botanical and food illustration style?

My art is deeply inspired by nature—forest walks, seasonal plants, botanical gardens, and wildflowers in the Pacific Northwest. I aim to blend scientific precision with emotional storytelling and nostalgic beauty.

Can I buy prints, originals, or products with your artwork?

Yes! I have a small selection of Original Botanical Art listed in my store. My Etsy shop has botanical prints, apparel, and gifts—all featuring original watercolor illustrations.

Do you teach botanical watercolor painting?

Yes, I share weekly botanical lessons on Patreon. Everyone is welcome to join! These are narrated, beginner-friendly projects. I have also previously shared a tutorial on how to paint a Periwinkle flower.

Looking for custom botanical or food illustration? Contact me today to request a project quote!