Mystic Petals
Unique hand crafted pressed botanical artwork by artist Jennifer Onizuka
The Art of Pressing Flowers
The art of pressing flowers, known as Oshibana, originated in Japan in the 16th century as a technique used by the samurai as a way to promote patience, harmony with nature, and powers of concentration. I still hold these practices close to me as I am creating artwork and preserving memories with the blooms.
Flowers and foliage are carefully laid out on to a press, often petal by petal, to flatten and dry out. Throughout the process, the artist checks on the florals to make sure they are drying properly and no wrinkles or mold is forming. It takes weeks for the botanicals to fully dry. Once thoroughly dry, flowers are taken out of the press and reassembled. Creating art with the preserved blooms feels like putting together a unique and one of a kind nature puzzle. No two pieces are ever the same.
Little Jenny, sketching one of her favorite flowers, a hibiscus, in her backyard
Current Jenny, still enjoying one of her favorite flowers, a hibiscus, cut from her backyard. Not much has changed.
Hi there, I’m Jenny, the artist and creator behind Mystic Petals. I have been in love with nature, plants, and flowers for as long as I can remember. What started out as a small hobby - pressing a random pretty flower or leaf I found on a walk between the pages of my sketchbook, has now blossomed in to a full time passion and career.
I have always been drawn to create collage style artwork. Shortly after graduating college, I discovered floral design and found my art knowledge carried over into a field I wasn’t expecting. Although I certainly enjoy working with fresh flowers, there is a special quiet, meditative joy I receive when creating pressed floral artwork.
I am a fully trained artist and take my love and knowledge of art and combine it with my passion for flowers to create a truly unique and special keepsake.
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