From Garden to Paper: A Studio Rooted in Nature

Welcome In

Welcome to my little corner of the world—my art studio. This quiet, light-filled space nestled at the end of our garden is where every idea for Sarah Jane Art begins.

Here, surrounded by dried flowers, earthy tones, and the sounds of birdsong, I create each card, print, and design. In this post, I’d love to take you behind the scenes—into the heart of my creative process, the story of how this space came to be, and how nature continues to inspire everything I do.

The Story Behind the Studio

My studio stands on what was once a patch of garden used for old sheds—hardly the setting you’d expect for a creative sanctuary! About three or four years ago, we decided to transform that patch into something meaningful.

We used a local timber company for the structure, then added insulation ourselves using insulation boards for warmth and comfort year-round. I painted the inside in a warm, neutral white—creating a soothing, minimalist backdrop that allows ideas to flow freely.

My studio is more than a workspace; it’s a place of stillness, where time slows down and inspiration is never far away. Every choice, from the materials to the location, reflects my love of slow living, sustainability, and soulful design.

A Peek Inside

Step inside and you’ll be greeted by soft, earthy tones that echo the natural world outside. A vase of flowers sits on the wooden worktop, catching the light that pours in through the large, wraparound window.

The view? Our garden in every season—blossoming in spring, lush in summer, golden in autumn, and still in winter. A seagrass rug lies underfoot, adding texture and grounding the space in natural simplicity.

Every detail is intentionally chosen. I work surrounded by meaningful objects—handmade items, botanical references, and carefully chosen materials that reflect both beauty and care for the earth.

Inside the Creative Process

This is where the magic happens. Each card design begins as a sketch—sometimes a single flower, sometimes an architectural detail from a place that resonated with me. From there, I paint with layers of watercolour, allowing the softness and transparency of each stroke to build gently.

Calligraphy is a more emotional process—it comes from the heart, often shaped by what I’m feeling in that moment.

Mornings are my most focused time—when I often write or plan calligraphy pieces while sipping tea, with calm music or birdsong in the background. Afternoons are for painting, packing, or simply soaking in the season outside the window.

No two days are the same—especially with a little one in tow—but there’s a rhythm that feels both grounding and free.

Rooted in Nature

Nature is everywhere here—not just outside my studio, but within every detail of my work. The view of our garden connects me to the seasons, to growth, to rest. It reminds me to slow down and notice.

I often take walks through the nearby allotments, parks and river, or bring foraged leaves and petals back to the studio to dry. These small rituals keep me grounded and connected to the world around me.

I love to feel my materials—to work with handmade papers that hold texture and story, and to celebrate the imperfections that come with natural processes. My aim is always to create pieces that feel both luxurious and human—beautiful in their honesty.

Let's Stay Connected

I’m so grateful to share this space with you. If you’d like to follow along as I create, reflect, and grow, you can find me on Instagram @sarah.jane_art or sign up for my newsletter for studio notes and seasonal updates.

Have questions about studio life or my creative process? I’d love to hear from you—leave a comment below or get in touch!

A Final Reflection

This studio is more than four walls and a desk. It’s a special space where ideas take root and where I reconnect with nature daily.

Thank you for stepping inside with me. Everything I create here is made with intention, inspired by the natural world, and sent out with love.

Garden design and planting by Matt Evans Landscapes.

Sarah x