The Artist in Residence program at UBC Botanical Garden allows an artist to develop a long-term relationship with the Garden through artwork inspired by plants in our collections and picturesque grounds.

This new program opens another gate at the Garden for community engagement, through exhibits, talks, and artists’ activities, both within the Garden and in the community.

This year, we welcome Dana Cromie as Artist in Residence. "I have been inspired by plants all my life: to study, to collect, to grow, and to share. For many years, my volunteer work at the Garden has given me the opportunity to share this passion, particularly as a guide. As well, I have painted all my life, mostly plants. Over the last two years, botanical watercolour has been an exciting focus for me.

I am honored to be the Garden's first Artist in Residence. I look forward to portraying plants in the Garden collections and creating a link between local botanical artists and the broader garden and art communities, adding a new facet to this UBC jewel."

UBC Biodiversity Collections Director Patrick Lewis adds, “On top of being a talented water colour artist, Dana has been an active Friend of the Garden volunteer since 2001. I am looking forward to seeing how he expresses his unique relationship and knowledge of our collections through his art.”

During his two year residency, the UBC Biodiversity Collections will hold an exhibit of Dana’s work each year at the Beaty Museum, as well display his most current work in the Campbell Building at the Garden, and offer cards and prints for sale in the Shop in the Garden.