Olga Koelsch: the blossoming of a passion for botanical watercolour

In the world of contemporary art, Olga Koelsch is emerging as an inspiring figure whose background embodies passion, resilience and creativity. What began as a simple outlet after exhausting days at work has evolved into a rewarding artistic journey.

Boasting over 15 years of marketing experience in companies with no connection to the art world, Koelsch finds refuge in her brushes and watercolours every evening. For her, painting is not just a hobby; it is a genuine quest for inner peace and a way to connect deeply with art. Exploring a variety of subjects—from landscapes to still lifes and fashion illustration—she always inevitably returns to her first love: flowers. She sees these as a source of inner peace and an opportunity to connect deeply with art. Determined to master the delicate art of botanical illustration, she studied it meticulously by reading books and taking part in various workshops, honing her skills in record time.

©Olga Koelsch – Magnolia – Watercolour on ARCHES® Aquarelle hot pressed paper

©Olga Koelsch – Dancing Tulips – Watercolour on ARCHES® Aquarelle hot pressed paper

However, Koelsch’s life took an unexpected turn when she met her future husband, moved to Norway and successively gave birth to their two sons. This was the beginning of a challenging period. Between learning a new language, immersing herself in a different culture and looking for a job, she made painting a daily ritual that brought her comfort and stability.

Encouraged by the support she received on Instagram when she shared her work, Koelsch dared to move to a new level, becoming a freelance artist. Thanks to her perseverance and the unwavering support of her husband, she gradually found her place in the art world.

©Olga Koelsch – British Irises – Watercolour on ARCHES® Aquarelle hot pressed paper

Attached to the tradition of botanical illustration, Koelsch gradually sought to broaden her artistic horizons. Inspired by Albert Koetsier’s fascinating X-ray photographs of flowers, she sought to capture this ethereal beauty with her brushes. She thus began exploring modern watercolour techniques, aiming to combine the precision of botanical illustration with the freedom and spontaneity of contemporary methods.

Today, Koelsch is thriving in her vocation and dedicates part of her time to passing on her knowledge. Through classes and workshops, she guides her students in learning watercolour, showing that the combination of technical precision and spontaneity can lead to beautifully expressive floral creations.

Olga Koelsch’s background is an ode to passion reflecting an unwavering determination to follow her artistic aspirations. She embodies the possibility of transforming a simple hobby into a fulfilling career, while inspiring a new generation of artists to embrace their dreams.