The Art of Essence: A Creative Journey Through Essential Oils
The concept developed organically in 2018. It began with a canvas and the intricate chemical structures of the top four or five compounds in an essential oil. These structures would be painted with creative intent, layered with a delicate wash of botanical imagery—subtly visible, yet harmoniously intertwined. The process included successive washes of colour, gradually revealing and transforming the botanical elements, with each piece signed in the lower right corner.
The first paintings naturally featured the botanicals in the company’s logo: Blue Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) and Sandalwood (Santalum album). Egg tempera, a medium cherished for its traditional craftsmanship, became the chosen method—mixing pigment with yolk, carefully preparing each element by hand. After the Blue Lotus piece was complete, an additional inspiration arose: incorporating a few drops of the essential oil into the paint itself, infusing the artwork with its energetics.
Encouraged by the success of these initial pieces, the vision expanded—why not create a painting for every essential oil in the collection? With over 130 oils, it was an ambitious undertaking, but one filled with creative exploration. Each painting became its own journey, with variations in brush strokes, layering techniques, and the occasional incorporation of airbrushing. Unexpected elements often found their way into the pieces, adding an organic, intuitive dimension to the process.
When the first paintings were shared on social media, a friend’s question sparked a new possibility: Would prints be available for sale? The idea of making high-quality reproductions took root, leading to the search for a reliable scanning and digitization service. To elevate the experience, each print would be accompanied by a small vial of the essential oil itself, creating a multi-sensory connection between sight and scent.
The paintings soon gained recognition. At a Canadian Alliance of Aromatherapists event, Dr. Kelly Ablard was drawn to the collection and inquired about commissions. Though commissions had not been a prior focus, the connection with Dr. Ablard and her dedication to plant conservation inspired a special project. Rosewood (Aniba
rosaeodora) became the next subject—a tribute to both her journey and the Shipibo people of Peru, who play a vital role in the sustainable protection of the tree. A decorative border, inspired by Shipibo artwork, was incorporated into the piece, further honouring their cultural significance.
Another meaningful collaboration followed. Inspired by conversations with Mark Dundore, the only commercial distiller of Devil’s Club essential oil at the time, a new painting took shape. With these works, a new mission emerged: donating 15% of the profits from print sales to organizations supporting the cultures and ecosystems connected to these botanicals.
The artistic journey deepened when Dr. Ablard proposed a collaboration focused on endangered species. The result was the “Endangered Species” series, dedicated to the nine commercially traded Frankincense species. Each painting would tell a story, offering insight into ethical and sustainable sourcing. To distinguish this collection from the artist’s personal works, a new approach was taken—portrait orientation for the canvases and handcrafted walnut frames, in contrast to the maple frames used for personal works. A commitment was made to donate 50% of the profits from these prints to the Airmid Institute, supporting efforts to
strengthen and sustain Boswellia supply chains.
This journey has been one of discovery, contemplation, and deep appreciation for the botanicals and the cultures that nurture them. Each painting seems to evolve in its own way, often revealing unexpected details that feel intrinsically right. Through this work, these plants are given another voice, one that speaks through art, chemistry, and scent. And with many more paintings still to come, the journey is far from over.
