A Flora Story
Julia’s work is inspired by the botanical world & our connection to that world. Whether it be ornamentals adored in a garden, root infused potions to heal the body or a bouquet of blossoms to celebrate a special day, plants are a part of our everyday lives. Here, she highlights them by utilizing the powerful oils and butters extracted from seeds and leaves and blending them into sensational tonics for our bodies and by sketching, carving and finally, rolling on the ink and printing paper.
“Flora Rosa” is Latin for “dear flower”
Julia Doherty Owner/Creator Flora Rosa Studio
Julia has a Bachelor’s Degree in Plant Science (SUNY Cobleskill), a Diploma in Organic Skincare Formulation from Formula Botanica in London, England and a Master’s Degree in Landscape Architecture (Spitzer School of Architecture NYC, which helps mostly with graphic design). She is an avid gardener, lover of moisturizer and sunscreen and is obsessed with creating new formulations to nourish and improve skin across the United States while supporting sustainable vendors and offering a superior product to customers.
What’s in a name? Why "Flora Rosa”
Julia has always been a great admirer of botanical illustration, especially work created by women during the Victorian Era. During her time as an undergraduate, Julia discovered her love for plant identification and learning their Latin names. Inspired by scientific naming (botanical nomenclature) of plants, she decided to name her print making studio, Flora Rosa. Flora Rosa is not in fact a redundant name, such as “flower rose” but that “rose” in Latin can also be a term of endearment.
In early 2021, unable to find a non-toxic moisturizer that would quench winter dryness, Julia enrolled in Formula Botanica, a school in London committed to teaching organic skincare formulation. After earning a diploma in Organic Skincare Formulation, Julia began the twin studio Flora Rosa Botanical Body which highlights beautiful butters, oils and extracts derived from plants. She uses the botanical prints in the packaging for the skincare products.
Forever inspired by the plant world as well as the natural world at large, Julia enjoys sketching, carving, printing, mixing & emulsifying from the Coachella Valley with her husband, 3 legged dog and gray, sassy cat.
Not every print is perfect, which leaves room in the future for other types of creativity such as hand coloring over inked prints and collage.