Rosa spinossissima is a botanical painting of the more commonly known (and easier to say!) Burnet Rose or Scotch Rose. It is one of our native roses and grows mostly in coastal areas. I found it in Autumn time, about half a mile from where I live, and was instantly captivated by its stunning, purplish-black hips. As a botanical artist I have strived to portray the plant true to life - the flowers, leaves and hips have been measured and drawn correctly, and the colours have been selected so that they match those in the actual plant. However I have used a measure of artistic licence in the design. I wanted this specimen to look like it was showing off those gorgeous hips, hence the outstretched, proud and slightly stylised 'posture'.