Botanical illustration is a very specific field where science and art intertwine. During
the XVII century, explorers came to Indonesia to register the archipelago’s natural
resources. This is when western art techniques and styles slowly started to be
introduced in Indonesia. Botanical illustration is still made in academic and artistic
environments, in this research we analyze the current environment of botanical
illustration and botanical art in Indonesia.
As a case study, the illustrations of Dr. Ichsan Suwandhi, were analyzed. He is a
lecturer from ITB who has been recognized internationally by his botanical
illustrations. Through interviews and literature review, the original hypothesis was
tested: The artwork of Dr. Ichsan Suwandhi has both an aesthetic value and scientific
functional value. The function of botanical illustrations in Indonesia has changed
through time but it’s still a necessity.
The artwork of Dr. Ichsan Suwandhi was analyzed through Feldman’s theory of art
criticism. Suwandhi’s style is categorized as objective accuracy. His art production
fulfills both aesthetic experiences and a scientific purpose. Although his style is
realistic, there are characteristics that make his illustrations different to those from the
European explorers that initially brought this technique to Indonesia