Hidden in Plain Sight: Discovering Amazonian Patterns in My Art

Victoria Amazonica spotted on our recent trip to Peru

On our recent trip to the Amazon Basin, we had the chance to experience natural habitats that felt almost untouched by commercial development. It was eye-opening, humbling, and beautiful in the most straightforward way. One plant in particular really caught my attention: Victoria amazonica, the giant water lily.

Its enormous round leaves float on the surface of quiet waters, overlapping in patterns that are both striking and serene. The symmetry and repetition immediately reminded me of something familiar—circle patterns I often use in my still life paintings, especially on the bowls and vases I paint. I’d never made the connection before, but standing by the water and looking at those perfect shapes, it felt obvious.

The Victoria amazonica has an interesting history. It was named after Queen Victoria in the 1800s and became a sensation in Europe when botanists began growing it in places like Kew Gardens. Its structure—especially the strong ribbed underside that helps it stay afloat—was even studied by architects and engineers. Artists also took notice. While not always the main subject, its shape and symmetry have found their way into paintings, often as a quiet symbol of beauty, balance, or the exotic.

Since coming home, I’ve looked at some of my older still lifes with fresh eyes. Now, when I see the circle pattern in the ceramics I’ve painted, I can’t help but think of the Victoria amazonica. And it makes me smile. Something that used to be just a visual choice now feels like it’s connected to a real moment in nature.

Inspiration doesn’t always come with a big announcement. Sometimes it just shows up—floating right in front of you.