If you'd like to buy a drawing of a particular species from me, but you don't see it in my shop, please ask if I have it.
I have dozens of drawings in my filing cabinet, most of them are part of various large commissions
(I usually draw species separately and combine them on my computer when designing the final artwork, together with the text, if required),
so there's always a chance I might have exactly what you need :)

Olive Tree Drawings and Mediterranean Tree Art

Whenever I travel to Mediterranean countries, I look for old olive trees. Their twisted trunks, weathered bark and silvery foliage make them irresistible subjects for a wildlife and natural-history artist. I’m particularly drawn to trees that have clearly lived through decades, or perhaps centuries, of changing landscapes and seasons.

Olive trees have a remarkable visual character. Their trunks can become deeply gnarled and sculptural with age, developing hollows, ridges, and dramatic twists, while their narrow, silvery-green leaves create a delicate contrast against the tree's rugged structure. Every old olive tree seems to have its own personality and shape, making them endlessly rewarding to study and draw.

The olive, Olea europaea, has been cultivated around the Mediterranean for thousands of years and is deeply embedded in the region's history, culture, and landscapes. Ancient olive trees can become living connections to that history, continuing to grow in places where generations of people have lived and worked among them.

For me, drawing an olive tree is as much about capturing its character as its botanical details. I enjoy observing the relationship between the ancient, often almost sculptural trunk and the lighter, more delicate foliage. Pen, pencil and other traditional drawing techniques allow me to explore these textures closely, from the rough surface of the bark to the fine shapes of individual leaves.

The Mediterranean landscape has provided endless inspiration for my tree drawings. Although my main focus is Irish wildlife and natural history, I also enjoy exploring subjects beyond Ireland, particularly when travelling. Trees are a natural extension of my wildlife illustration practice: living organisms with their own structures, habitats, and histories, and just as fascinating to observe as the animals that depend on them.

One of the original olive tree drawings featured here, as well as the Olive Tree Shapes with Butterfly print, is available from my online store.

If you enjoy tree drawings, botanical-inspired artwork and the character of ancient trees, you can also explore my Trees of Marlay Park, a series of intricate pen drawings inspired by the trees of this Dublin park.