Hi, I’m Nova Karmita. An emerging botanical artist originally from Indonesia, now based near the beautiful Lake Taupō in New Zealand’s North Island.

Art has been part of me for as long as I can remember. As a child, I was always drawing; observing small details and finding joy in translating what I saw onto paper. I later completed my Bachelor’s degree in Design at the Bandung Institute of Technology in Indonesia, but it wasn’t until I moved to New Zealand that I truly found my heart in botanical illustration.

Living so close to nature here has changed the way I see the world. I’m especially inspired by the individuality of every flower; the subtle curves of petals, unexpected color harmonies, and the important roles native plants play in maintaining balance within the ecosystem. Artists like Dianne Sutherland and Giacomina Ferrillo have deeply influenced my appreciation for careful study and thoughtful storytelling through art. I’m also grateful to be a full member of the Botanical Art Society of New Zealand (BASNZ), which continues to inspire and nurture my journey.

My creative process is slow and intentional. I begin by observing the living plant; studying its structure, textures, and colors then recording its unique characteristics and stories in my botanical journal. Sometimes I research its role in wildlife or its traditional medicinal uses. Only after truly understanding the plant do I begin exploring its color palette in watercolor, followed by developing the final piece. For me, this process is more than technique, because I want each artwork to feel alive, carrying its own story rather than simply replicating what is seen.

When I’m not painting, you’ll find me baking in my kitchen or tending to my garden; small rituals that keep me grounded and inspired. You can follow along my Instagram @bynova.botanicalart for behind-the-scenes glimpses of my latest work.

Thank you for being here and for taking the time to share in my journey.