Pittsburgh: A region with an interest in the botanical arts

Allegheny Highlands Botanical Art Society (AHBAS), a regional chapter of the American Society of Botanical Artists (ASBA), is based in Pittsburgh, with members from Western Pennsylvania, Eastern Ohio and West Virginia. Formed in 2001, the AHBAS was recognized as the second regional chapter of ASBA. The group was organized to provide an educational and social forum for members to improve their artistic skills and increase their botanical knowledge.  

Through their annual flora project and local exhibitions the chapter strives to educate the public on plant diversity, native plant ecology, and conservation and is always looking for new members whether a novice or professional! Members use many types of medium - watercolor, graphite, colored pencils, printmaking .........

Additionally, every three years the American Society of Botanical Artists holds its annual meeting and conference in Pittsburgh to coincide with the International Exhibit of Botanical Art & Illustration at the Hunt Institute for Botanical Documentation.  

Pittsburgh is also the home of Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. Opening in 1893, Phipps has a long history of offering botanical art classes and a certificate program in Botanical Art & Illustration for students interested in pursuing art for pleasure and personal enrichment.