The Grootbos Florilegium: An unforgettable journey
The story of the Grootbos Florilegium began with a shared sense of wonder. Our fascination with our magnificent surroundings inspired every step in our journey. Today, the unique collection of botanical artworks is testament to our vision.
We believe conservation is only the beginning. That’s why we’re continuously researching, innovating and pioneering new ways to preserve the botanical wilderness we call home.
Our connection to the Cape Floral Kingdom dates back 25 years, when we first channeled our passion for this unique environment into a lifelong custodial mission.
The Grootbos Florilegium was created as an expression of our commitment to the preservation of our natural treasures. Art became the medium to share our botanical heritage with the world.
As we mark this latest milestone in our journey, we continue to find new ways to celebrate one of our planet’s most precious biomes, and protect its legacy for the generations to come.
A collection of intricate botanical illustrations that tell the stories of the Cape Floral Kingdom.
Unmistakably unique
Explore what makes the Grootbos Florilegium an experience like no other.
An African first
Though florilegia have enjoyed a long and illustrious history, Grootbos is proud to present the first contemporary florilegium in Africa. Never before has the legendary Cape fynbos been celebrated in this way.
Celebrating an ecosystem
A distinguishing feature of the Grootbos Florilegium is the inclusion of insects, pollinators and other animal “friends” of the fynbos. In this way, the collection tells the story of the greater ecosystem that exists in perfect balance.
Creative collaboration
The Grootbos Florilegium is a meeting of like-minded individuals. The collection brings together both local and international botanical artists. Though each artist is unique, they are connected by a passion for telling stories through art.
An artistic home
In addition to their botanical portraits, each artist also creates a second page featuring associates, plant anatomy or magnifications of finer detail. The complete collection of artworks is to be housed at a dedicated botanical art gallery on the Grootbos Private Nature Reserve.
Global possibilities
The team has made it possible for the original artworks to be transferred to extremely high-quality prints. This enables the works to be owned and shared by more people, and opens up the possibility for travelling exhibitions.
A lifelong custodial commitment
More than simply an art collection, the florilegium represents the Grootbos commitment to celebrating and preserving its abundance of fynbos. The collection of artworks is yet another means for the promotion, protection and conservation of a unique natural wonder.
Book a tour and explore the wonders of the Grootbos Florilegium.
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"The enthusiasm and drive of Michael Lutzeyer coupled with the skilful and loving guidance of Vicki Thomas, has taken this project to the next level and has started a new chapter in the history of botanical art both locally and globally" - Chris Lochner
The talents behind the Grootbos Florilegium
The Grootbos Florilegium is a global collaboration, featuring carefully selected botanical artists. 35 celebrated artists from South Africa, Zimbabwe, Reunion and the United Kingdom have lent their talents and expertise to the collection. A further 9 come from countries including the Netherlands, Brazil, the USA, Japan, Germany, South Korea and Italy.
Ultimately, the Grootbos Florilegium will represent nothing less than the best of the international botanical arts community.
Our Artists
Explore the Grootbos Florilegium
Take a virtual journey through the unique artistic experience that is the Grootbos Florilegium.
- Art
- Botanical Art Gallery
Explore the legacy of the Grootbos Florilegium
Where the natural splendour captured in every artwork is an expression of the Grootbos purpose.
