January: Month of the Rose

Since it's Valentine's Day next month, and since the Rose is considered by many to be one of the most romantic flowers in the world, I've decided to dedicate this month to learning how to draw a rose.

I’ll be using books, online tutorials and images and, of course, fresh roses.

Also it will be a great opportunity to learn a bit about this spiky flower. So first thing first: the research.

The first thing I've learned is that there are more than 100 species of Roses and it’s been cultivated for thousands years now. As a color it's considered to be something in between Red and Fuchsia.

It's been a religious and a romantic symbol in many cultures such as Roman and Greek Empires; it is a national symbol of England and an all times symbol of love and beauty.
It was often used in ancient European architecture, mostly during a Gothic period.

There are several Rose festival’s held all over the world, such as Portland Rose Festival  and Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, USA.

Today it still has plenty of usage besides being the most romantics flower - be it in politics, rituals or medicine.

But most of us just love the rose for what it is – a beautiful flower with an amazing scent that can make any one’s heart melted.

Love and be loved,
D.