Step into the world of 18th-century botanical artistry and celebrate A Brush with Nature: Art in the Garden as we mark the 325th birthday of Mary Delany (1700–1788)—a pioneering artist whose intricate “paper mosaicks” revolutionised botanical illustration. Closely connected to Chelsea Physic Garden, Delany found inspiration in its plant collections, as many artists still do today.

This special one-day workshop begins with a talk on Delany’s life, work, and legacy in botanical art. Then, guided by artist Jessica Palmer, you’ll learn her delicate technique of ‘painting with paper’—cutting, layering, and assembling fine materials to create intricate depictions of flowers, leaves, birds, and insects.

Explore the Garden in its seasonal beauty, gathering inspiration from the very plants that flourished in Delany’s time. No experience necessary. All materials provided. Leave with your own beautifully crafted artwork.

Please note:

• This workshop takes place upstairs in our Gallery space, which is not wheelchair accessible. For accessibility inquiries, please email
• Lunch is not included. You are welcome to bring your own or visit the Physic Garden Café.
• The Garden closes at 5pm.

About Jessica Palmer:

Jessica Palmer is a mixed-media artist specializing in papercutting, collage, ink, and watercolour. Described as “the 21st Century Mary Delany” for her collage work, she blends illustration with paper artistry.

Her commissions include Disney Pixar, English Heritage, the National Trust, and various museums and festivals. Notable site-specific 3D paper installations have been showcased at Hampton Court, Stourhead (NT), and the Tower of London.

Jessica is the author of The Art of Papercutting (Search Press) and other best-selling titles. In 2025, she is Artist in Residence at the Nature in Art gallery in Gloucestershire and Visiting Artist at Kelmscott Manor, the home of William Morris.