I began by thinking about the Australian Waxflower (Hoya australis)—a beautiful native climbing plant that blooms in the cooler months with tiny, star-shaped flowers that look like they were piped onto a cake. But as I started drawing, it wasn’t the flowers that caught me—it was the leaves. Their smooth, simple, repetitive forms had a quiet rhythm to them.
I did two quick, more realistic sketches, and then a third that leaned into a stylised interpretation: swirly vines, rounder leaves, a bit more imagination. It felt good to experiment.
Even with a one-minute drawing prompt, there's always room for evolution.
Quick ideas for “Climb” doodles:
- A ladder to nowhere
- A snail making its way up a leaf
- A spiral staircase
- A vine wrapping around a pencil
- A little mountain with footsteps winding to the top
(Bonus idea: these climbing sketches might even inspire a cake later this week!)
A little wildflower magic
The Hoya australis, or Australian Waxflower, is a quiet kind of marvel. It climbs steadily with glossy green leaves and blooms in autumn and winter, when most flowers are resting. The blossoms are thick and waxy, creamy white with a pink or red centre—almost like they're made of sugar. They give off a sweet scent, especially at night, and attract birds, bees, and even little sugar gliders.It’s a plant that reminds me: not all climbers rush. Some grow quietly and bloom when the world isn’t watching.
Whether you’re drawing for one minute or twenty, I hope today’s prompt gave you a quiet moment to create. Let your lines wander. Let your leaves swirl.