Flower Power

Amy Woods relishes the months when her garden is in bloom and inspiration is within easy reach.

- CARA DOWNS

THE ABUNDANCE OF natural light streaming into Amy Woods’ home studio is ideal for growing plants and, in Woods’ case, for painting them. Scattered about the attic are dozens of paintings of flowers—a bouquet of pink peonies, a vase of bright yellow tulips—rendered in soothing watercolor palettes.

It’s no coincidence that most of Woods’ work features flowers and other botanicals. For the Ohio native, flowers aren’t just the subject of her art; they’re also a passion.

“I’m a master gardener,” says Woods, 52. “I like painting from things that exist—not from a photograph—so using my garden as the subject is a natural fit.”