Botanic Play is a personal, evolving body of work by Hyderabad-based illustrator Bhargavi Rudraraju. Rooted in a lifelong connection to nature, the series celebrates the quiet joy and grounding presence of plants through carefully composed botanical artworks.
Until around seven years ago, Rudraraju lived what she describes as a largely nomadic life, spending extended periods immersed in natural landscapes in places such as Ponda in Goa and Dili in Timor-Leste. Growing up surrounded by nature shaped her visual language and sensibility, fostering a deep attentiveness to organic forms and environments. That early exposure now finds expression in her illustration practice, particularly through botanical art.
Her process begins traditionally, with pencil sketches drawn by hand. These initial studies are then translated into the digital space and completed using Procreate. The resulting works maintain a tactile, observational quality while embracing the flexibility and layering possibilities of digital tools.
Botanic Play functions as a single, ongoing series. Each artwork shares a collage-inspired composition and is numbered using Roman numerals, reinforcing the sense of continuity and evolution. So far, three works have been created: Botanic Play I, Botanic Play II and Botanic Play III. Rather than existing as isolated illustrations, they operate as chapters within a broader meditation on plants and mindful living.
Through these botanical compositions, Rudraraju explores the feel-good presence of plants in everyday life. The works do not dramatise nature or romanticise it. Instead, they gently foreground its constancy. Leaves, stems and layered forms become quiet anchors within the frame, inviting the viewer to slow down and look more closely.
As Rudraraju notes, “Botanicals are the quiet essence of our lives.” The statement encapsulates the ethos of the series. Plants are presented not as decorative motifs, but as subtle companions that support well-being, care and a healthier relationship with the world around us.
Bhargavi Rudraraju began illustrating professionally in 2015 after leaving her full-time role in the social development sector and relocating to Timor-Leste. Much of her practice is self-taught. She is a published illustrator whose work has appeared in children’s books and magazine articles, alongside her personal projects.
ARTIST LINKS
Website:
https://bhargavirudraraju.com/
