Stephen Russell-Brett Art, 67 Brighton Road (2025)

13/01/2025

Two Yellow Irises (2024) - When storm clouds dance with golden afternoons

In this intimate 10x10" acrylic study, the dance of yellow irises against a storm-brewing sky captures that magical moment when afternoon light pierces through summer clouds in Provence. Each petal, delicately enhanced with gold leaf, honours the fleeting beauty of these garden sentinels.

Drawing inspiration from lazy afternoons in a Southern French garden, this piece from the "Florilege" Collection marries traditional botanical art with contemporary minimalism. The textured background in sophisticated taupes and creams creates a modern stage for nature's drama, while the deep greens of the foliage ground the composition with quiet confidence.

Technically, this piece represents a bold departure from my usual tablescaped compositions, focusing instead on the pure essence of the blooms. The deliberate choice to extend the leaves beyond the traditional focal area breaks conventional boundaries, much like those afternoon storms that transformed our summer gardens into theatres of light and shadow. Each brush stroke and touch of gold leaf serves to capture not just the visual memory, but the very essence of those cherished moments.

"Yellow is the colour of sun, of life reborn anew." - Frida Kahlo

09/01/2025

𝗬𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝗔𝗳𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗼𝗼𝗻

Where childhood memories bloom in summer light ✨

There's a corner of my grandparents' English garden that lives forever in my mind: climbing yellow roses scaling the weathered brick walls, their perfume drifting through open windows on warm afternoons. This digital illustration captures that essence of summer days, when time moved slowly and afternoon light turned everything golden. The roses in this piece aren't just flowers – they're fragments of those cherished moments, rendered in soft yellows against a dreamy blue sky.

The dotted enamel pitcher speaks of its own journey, discovered in a sun-dappled corner of a Provence brocante. Its previous life might have been in a provincial farmhouse kitchen, serving generations of families their morning coffee. Now it stands proudly alongside a hand-cut glass vase, both vessels celebrating the elegant simplicity of everyday beauty. The geometric patterns in the tablecloth echo the structured gardens of my youth, while the organic forms of the roses add their wild grace.

In creating this limited edition piece, I wanted to blend the precision of digital art with the warmth of cherished memories. Each element is carefully composed – the pale blue sky holding space for contemplation, the patterned tiles grounding the scene in tradition, and those luminous yellow blooms reaching toward the light. It's a meditation on how the simplest moments – afternoon tea, garden roses, a treasured jug – can hold the deepest meaning.

"Some painters transform the sun into a yellow spot, others transform a yellow spot into the sun." - Pablo Picasso

20/12/2024

Summer Café Table

Where African memories bloom in a French garden.

In a quiet corner of Nice, where morning light dances across striped tablecloths and the scent of coffee mingles with sea air, I found myself painting bridges between worlds. The signature purple Jacaranda blossom, resting solitary on a rose-tinted plate, carries whispers of my hometown Pretoria's violet-canopied streets. It's a deliberate pause in the composition, a moment of reflection amid the vibrant bouquet.

This piece from my Florilège collection celebrates the beautiful contradictions of a global life: Japanese Sakura blossoms sharing space with daisies, bold tulips reaching skyward alongside delicate blooms. Each flower represents a chapter of my journey, painted in vibrant acrylics and crowned with touches of goldleaf that catch light like morning dew. The taupe and ruby vessel grounds these botanical wanderers, while the green-striped tablecloth provides a familiar rhythm beneath this multicultural dialogue. The soft mint background creates a serene stage where South African memories dance with Mediterranean dreams.

This piece is part of my Florilège collection, where I explore the language of flowers across cultures and continents. The deliberate placement of the fallen Jacaranda flower tells its own story – of letting go, of finding beauty in displacement, of carrying home wherever we go.

Working on this piece transported me to those languid summer afternoons in the South of France, where time slows and stories unfold over coffee cups and pastry crumbs. Yet within its Mediterranean setting, it holds the spirit of my South African roots, proving that in art, as in life, our diverse experiences create the most compelling narratives. Each petal and leaf is a celebration of the places that shape us, the memories we carry, and the beauty we find in bringing our whole selves to each new canvas.

"In every flower's petal lies a story; in every garden, a memoir." - Stephen Russell-Brett

15/12/2024

Café Botanica- An Ode to the South of France"

Discover the enchanting world of "Café Botanica" - a digital illustration that transports you to the sun-drenched cafes of the South of France.

Emerging artist, Stephen Russell Brett's "Café Botanica" is a captivating ode to the whimsical atmosphere he experienced while sitting in a cosy café in the south of France, sipping coffee and immersed in a beloved book. The vibrant, yet delicate, floral arrangements in the image evoke the gentle breeze and the intoxicating scent of blooms that filled the air. While the buzzing of bumblebees added to the serene ambiance.

Inspired by the charming cafe décor and the inherent beauty of the natural world. Russell Brett's digital illustration blends the organic shapes of the agapanthus blooms with the bold, playful patterns of the vases and pitchers. The vibrant, blue-hued agapanthus flowers are the focal point, adding a sense of elegance and natural beauty. The patterned vases and water pitcher create a playful, decorative contrast to the organic floral forms. The result is a captivating composition that invites the viewer to pause. Thus become fully immersed in the tranquil, yet whimsical, atmosphere.

This limited edition digital work is part of Russell Brett's "Florilege Collection," which seeks to capture the essence of the South of France through a unique, artistic lens. Each piece in the collection celebrates the region's natural splendour, rich culture, and the artist's own personal experiences. "Café Botanica" is a true testament to the power of art to transport us to enchanting, dreamlike realms.

Quote: "Art is the window to man's soul. Without it, he would never be able to see beyond his immediate world; nor could the world see the man within." - Claudia Lady Bird Johnson

# CaféBotanica

14/12/2024

Grasse Roses

Experience the whimsical allure of the south of France's iconic rose gardens through my latest limited edition digital illustration, "Grasse Roses."

As an artist, I'm constantly inspired by the natural world - and after watching a documentary on the perfume capital of the world, Grasse, I knew I had to capture its magic. The lush rose gardens, the symphony of soft petals, buzzing bees, and the intoxicating scent of thousands of blooms - it all seemed like a dream. I've long had Grasse on my bucket list, and seeing that visual feast unfold on screen only fueled my desire to one day immerse myself in that serene, sun-dappled scene.

With "Grasse Roses," I've aimed to transport viewers right into that captivating whimsical landscape. Through vibrant colors, delicate brushstrokes, and an air of whimsy, this limited edition digital illustration celebrates the beauty and charm of the region's iconic rose varietals. From the velvety folds of the petals to the golden centers bursting with life, every detail was carefully crafted to evoke the sensory experience of strolling through those picturesque gardens.

Whether adorning your walls or serving as a digital centerpiece, "Grasse Roses" promises to infuse any space with a sense of tranquility and refined elegance. This work is a testament to the power of floral inspiration and the boundless creativity that can be unlocked when we open our eyes to the wonders of the natural world. I hope it transports you to that enchanting rose-scented oasis, if only for a moment.

This "Grasse Roses" artwork is available in a variety of sizes to suit your space and needs. Whether you're looking for a statement piece or something more intimate, I'd be happy to discuss the options with you. Feel free to send me a direct message if you'd like more information on pricing and availability.

Quote: "Perfume is the indispensable complement to the personality." - Coco Chanel

13/12/2024

Dancing Snowdrops - A Florilège Bloom from the South of France

Snowdrops have a special place in my heart, for they were the first flowers I ever created digitally and then painted. There's something so enchanting and whimsical about these humble winter blooms - their delicate, nodding heads emerging from the cold earth, almost like tiny fairies peeking out to greet the world.

When I first encountered them swaying in the breeze during my wanderings through the southern French countryside, I was immediately captivated. The way their pure white petals seemed to shimmer with an almost otherworldly radiance - it was as if they were imbued with a quiet magic, a reminder that even in the depths of winter, beauty and renewal are never far away.

Bringing these snowdrops to life through my brushstrokes became a labor of love, an opportunity to celebrate the quiet resilience and delicate grace of nature's unsung heroes. Every time I revisit this painting, I'm transported back to that serene garden, where the only sounds were the gentle rustling of leaves and the faint buzzing of honeybees. It's in moments like those that I find my greatest inspiration, and the snowdrop will forever hold a cherished place in my creative journey.

I invite you to step into this enchanted world, to lose yourself in the delicate dance of these winter blooms, and to let your spirit be lifted by the timeless elegance of the Florilège collection.

12/12/2024

A Vibrant Farmhouse Tableau Worthy of the French Countryside.

Introducing the latest piece in the "Florilege: Symphony en Bloom" collection - "Summer Farm Table"! This vibrant acrylic painting captures the essence of the French countryside, reminiscent of the quaint, sun-dappled towns of the South African Winelands.

Against a moody backdrop of rich taupe and grey hues, a sturdy ceramic vase takes center stage, its tiled pattern accented with shimmering gold leaf. Beside it stands a vintage blue-and-white striped water jug, adding an extra touch of rustic charm. Inside the vase, a lush bouquet of white and yellow daisies spills forth, their organic shapes and rich hues evoking the abundance of a summer farmscape. The interplay of textures - from the vase's tactile quality to the tablecloth's playful harlequin print - creates a sense of visual whimsy.

As I crafted this piece, I was inspired by the natural beauty and cozy comforts found in rural settings, whether in the winding streets of Roussillon-en-Provence or the sun-soaked vineyards of Stellenbosch. Through the careful composition and bold, expressive brushwork, I aimed to capture the serene yet vibrant atmosphere of a well-loved farmhouse table, where sunlight dances across the weathered wood and the scent of fresh-cut flowers mingles with the aroma of a hearty summer meal.

"Art is the only way to run away without leaving home." - Twyla Tharp

07/12/2024

Dancing Bluebells

As I meandered through the sun-dappled fields of southern France, a sea of vibrant bluebells caught my eye, their delicate petals swaying in the gentle breeze. It was as if the flowers were performing a captivating dance, beckoning me to join in their whimsical revelry. In that moment, a vision took hold, and I knew I had to capture the brief beauty of this scene on canvas.

Normally, my work features a more complex interplay of elements, but for this piece, I wanted to strip away the distractions and let the bluebells take centre stage. The simplicity of the composition - just the flowers themselves against a pristine white background - was a new creative experiment for me, a departure from my typical approach.

As I dipped my brush into the rich, azure hues and began to bring the bluebells to life, I could almost feel the sun's warmth on my face and hear the distant laughter of children playing in the distance. Each stroke was a testament to the fleeting nature of beauty, a celebration of the magic that can be found in the most ordinary of moments.

The addition of the shimmering gold leaf accents was a deliberate choice, meant to imbue the work with a sense of the divine. Just as the divine can be found in the natural world, I wanted these blooms to exude a transcendent quality, inviting the viewer to pause and revel in the simple splendour of their existence.

"Dancing Bluebells" is the result of this creative journey, a work that captures the essence of a memory while also pushing the boundaries of my own artistic expression. It is my hope that this piece will transport you to those sun-drenched fields, where the world seems to slow down and the only thing that matters is the beauty that surrounds us, waiting to be discovered.

07/12/2024

BRAND NEW ARTWORK: Capturing a Fleeting Moment in Cagnes-sur-Mer

As an artist, I'm always on the lookout for those fleeting moments of beauty that have the power to captivate and inspire. It was during one of my wanderings through the charming streets of Cagnes-sur-Mer, in the south of France, that I stumbled upon a scene that stopped me in my tracks.

There, set upon a striped tablecloth in a quaint café garden, was an arrangement of flowers that seemed to practically glow with vibrant life. Vibrant yellow irises, peach-hued tulips, and delicate white snowdrops stood in elegant contrast, creating a tableau that was both refined and whimsical. It was as if this colourful ensemble was awaiting the arrival of guests for a most enchanting tea party.

I knew I had to capture this moment, to preserve the fleeting beauty of those blooms in a way that would allow others to experience the same sense of wonder and delight that had overcome me. And so, with my digital tools at the ready, I set to work translating this vision into a lasting work of art.

"Cagnes-sur-Mer" is the result of that creative endeavour – a digital illustration that invites the viewer to step into that sun-drenched garden and become a silent witness to the quiet elegance of the scene. The textured petals and leaves seem to catch the light, creating a sense of depth and dimensionality that draws the eye ever deeper into the composition.
Printed on archival Hahnemühle matte paper, this work is edition 6 of 24, ensuring its exclusivity and preserving the integrity of the artist's vision.

In "Cagnes-sur-Mer," I invite you to pause, to savour the simplicity and elegance of the moment, and to find joy in the unexpected beauty that can be discovered in the most ordinary of settings. It is my hope that this work will transport you, inspire you, and remind you that the world is filled with pockets of wonder, waiting to be discovered by those with eyes to see.

If you'd like to see more BRAND NEW works from my "Florilege: Symphony en Bloom" collection inspired by the French countryside, visit the Atterbury Theatre Christmas Market today December 7th (9am-7pm), and tomorrow December 8th (9am-8pm). You can find me at and the Atterbury Theatre .

06/12/2024

Café Grasse: A Floral Symphony Captured in Digital Bloom

Discover the vibrant floral symphony of "Café Grasse," a captivating digital illustration by emerging artist Stephen Russell-Brett. Blending traditional and digital mediums, this piece celebrates the beauty of nature's delicate Grasse roses, the iconic flowers from which the renowned perfumes of southern France are crafted.

In this work, Russell-Brett skillfully captures the ethereal essence of these blooms, inviting us to experience them as living, breathing works of art. The delicate petals, rendered in soft hues, seem to dance across the canvas, while the playful buzzing of bees adds a touch of whimsy to the scene. The artist's keen eye for detail and masterful use of color create a sense of depth and dimension, drawing the viewer into this enchanting world.

"Florilège: Symphonie en Bloom," the collection to which "Café Grasse" belongs, showcases Russell-Brett's unique approach to bridging traditional and digital art forms. By combining acrylic paints, gold leaf, and digital recreations, he transforms the ordinary into moments of extraordinary visual poetry. Each piece in this collection invites the viewer to pause, reflect, and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature's boundless inspiration, from the fragrant Grasse roses to the playful buzzing of bees.

If you'd like to see more BRAND NEW works from my "Florilege: Symphony en Bloom" collection inspired by the French countryside, visit the Atterbury Theatre Christmas Market from December 4th (5pm-9pm), December 5th-7th (9am-7pm), and December 8th (9am-8pm). You can find me at and the Atterbury Theatre .

"The true joy of creation lies not just in the final work, but in the journey of discovery that leads us there." - Stephen Russell-Brett

05/12/2024

METAMORPHOSIS OF MEMORY: Merit Award Triumph at The Luxembourg Art Prize! 🏆

Stephen Russell-Brett's artwork "Metamorphosis of Memory: Unfolding Tomorrow's Dialogue" has been honoured with a prestigious Merit Award at The Luxembourg Art Prize, celebrating its profound exploration of grief, memory, and societal transformation.

"Receiving this Merit Award from the Pinacothèque Museum is an incredible validation of my artistic journey," shares Russell-Brett. "This recognition not only celebrates the personal narrative embedded in my work but also amplifies its universal message of hope and potential for change. I am deeply grateful to the jury and the Pinacothèque for seeing beyond the artwork's surface and understanding its deeper emotional and social implications."

The award-winning diptych, which ingeniously combines personal artifacts, origami techniques, photography, and digital manipulation, continues to captivate audiences with its innovative approach to storytelling. Through the delicate use of vellum translucent paper and a powerful butterfly motif, the artwork invites viewers to explore the complex landscapes of personal loss and collective transformation.

The Luxembourg Art Prize, known for discovering and supporting emerging artistic talents, has once again demonstrated its commitment to recognizing artwork that transcends traditional boundaries and provokes meaningful dialogue.

05/12/2024

Pink Vase - A Moment of Peace in the French Countryside

In this new painting, I'm reminded of the tranquil afternoons I spent wandering the French countryside. Sketchbook in hand, searching for the perfect subject to capture. It was during one of those meandering walks that I stumbled upon a small farmhouse, its windows thrown open to the warm summer breeze. And there, in the simple windowsill, stood a single snowdrop flower in a soft pink vase - a vision of delicate beauty against the lush, verdant landscape.

I knew I had to immortalize that fleeting moment on canvas. The process of painting "Pink Vase on Green" was equal parts challenging and rewarding. I must have reworked the shape of that vase a dozen times, striving to get the proportions just right. And the layering of colours to recreate the variations in that striped tablecloth? Let's just say I developed a deep appreciation for the patience.

But in the end, I'm thrilled with how this piece captures the quiet serenity I felt in that countryside scene. The snowdrop's fragile petals, the golden accents that lend an air of refinement, the play of light and shadow - it all comes together to create a sense of tranquility that I hope will resonate with anyone who sees it. This isn't a grand, sweeping landscape; it's an intimate glimpse into a moment of simple beauty, an invitation to slow down and savor the extraordinary found in the ordinary. I hope this work brings you a sense of peace and wonder, just as it does for me every time I look at it.

If you'd like to see more artworks from my "Florilege: Symphony en Bloom" collection inspired by the French countryside, visit the Atterbury Theatre Christmas Market from December 4th (5pm-9pm), December 5th-7th (9am-7pm), and December 8th (9am-8pm). You can find me at and the Atterbury Theatre .

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