Why, Hello There!
I’m Crystal Driedger, a botanical artist, illustrator, and educator based in Sherwood Park, Alberta. The natural world deeply inspires my work—whether painting intricate botanicals from specimens, I've grown in my home garden, illustrating birds and landscapes, or creating enamel pins and artful accessories. Growing up on a farm on the edge of a vast forest, I developed a deep connection with nature, which continues to shape my artistic approach. I love exploring mediums and work (and have worked) extensively in coloured pencils, oils, acrylic, watercolour and graphite.
My work has been exhibited internationally, including at the American Society of Botanical Artists exhibitions in New York and California for the past three years, I had the incredible opportunity to be an artist-in-residence at the Oak Spring Garden Foundation in Virginia, USA, where I immersed myself in botanical studies and honed my craft alongside well known artists and scientists from around the world. Alongside my studio practice, I am a sessional instructor at MacEwan University, where I teach Drawing for Illustration to aspiring designers and illustrators.
What you might want to know
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Educator
Crystal is a sessional instructor at MacEwan University in the Design Studies program, where she teaches Drawing for Illustration. Her classes focus on foundational drawing and painting techniques, helping students develop their observational skills, refine their line work, and build confidence in their artistic process. She brings a hands-on, encouraging approach to teaching, drawing from her own experience as a professional illustrator and artist.
In addition to her university teaching, Crystal offers several in-person workshops each year, covering a variety of topics such as drawing, colored pencil techniques, nature journaling and painting. These workshops provide a welcoming space for both beginners and experienced artists to learn new skills, explore different materials, and deepen their appreciation for nature-inspired art.
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Markets & Wholesale
Crystal’s work can be found at select art markets and artistan craft fairs throughout the year, where she showcases her enamel pins, fine art prints, cards, and original paintings. These events are a wonderful opportunity to see her work in person, connect with the artist, and find unique pieces to take home.
For retailers interested in carrying Crystal’s enamel pins, art prints, or other small goods, wholesale opportunities are available. She welcomes inquiries from boutiques, museum gift shops, and specialty stores that appreciate high-quality, nature-inspired art. If you're interested in stocking Crystal’s work, please reach out for wholesale pricing and details.
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In the field
Oakspring Blog PostCrystal finds inspiration in the intersection of science and art in nature. You’ll often find her in her garden, surrounded by plants, birds, and butterflies, observing the many intricate details that surround her.
In July 2024, Crystal was one of three botanical artists in residence at the prestigious Oak Spring Garden Foundation in Virginia, USA—an artist and ecological residency dedicated to botanical studies. During her time there, she created a detailed study of the trumpet vine, which was acquired for the foundation’s permanent collection. This piece has since begun touring across the USA alongside other significant botanical works.
A few career highlights!
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Polar Bear Anatomy lenticular display installed at the Telus World of Science, arctic journey's exhibition, Edmonton, AB.
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Mural at the Royal Alberta Museum, Natural History Gallery, Edmonton, AB.
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Crystal and her boys at her Public Art Installation along Petroluem way in Sherwood Park Alberta. There are three locations along the trail to see!
Fun Facts about Crystal Driedger Art.
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Who are you supporting when you purchase or advocate for me? My entire family benefits from your support, and I, in turn, support local businesses as often as I can as well.
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As many of my products as possible are made in Canada and when it's impossible to find a Canadian made alternative, the packaging is Canadian made and I will choose to support a Canadian go-between.
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Everything is designed and packaged in our home by Crystal and her teenage sons (who are enjoying some extra income with your help too!). Our pins are packaged on recycled kraft paper and we opt to not use plastic packaging for our pins.
Organizations to support
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American Society of Botanical ArtistsThe ASBA aims to provide a thriving, interactive community dedicated to perpetuating the tradition and contemporary practice of botanical art.
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Federation of Canadian ArtistsThe mission of the FCA is to advance the knowledge and appreciation of art and culture to all Canadians, offering education, exhibition and communication in the Visual Arts, and to support and promote emerging to professional member artists.
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CARFACCARFAC Alberta advances best practices for all visual artists in Alberta through education, advocacy and engagement.
