Touch Me Not

This painting, titled "Touch Me Not," by Hannah Borger Overbeck, features an elegant portrayal of the touch-me-not plant (Impatiens spp.). The artist has skillfully captured the delicate, drooping nature of the plant with its slender stems and soft, green leaves. The blossoms are depicted in yellow and orange hues, typical of some varieties of this species, which add a subtle warmth against the otherwise muted background.The composition of the drawing gently guides the viewer's eye through the interplay of leaves and flowers, evoking a sense of graceful movement. Overbeck used a combination of light ink outlines and soft watercolor washes to create both definition and a sense of fragility. The gentle overlap of leaves and the varying intensities of color enhance the naturalistic feel, making the plant seem alive and lightly swaying.In the lower right corner, the title "Touch-me-not" is inscribed, along with the artist's initials, grounding the piece in a personal touch. The artwork conveys a gentle yet vivid representation of nature, typical of Overbeck's style, who was known for her botanical studies and contributions to the Arts and Crafts movement. Her work often reflects a deep appreciation and meticulous observation of natural forms, which is vividly depicted in this serene botanical illustration.