What is the course about?
Discover the pure and relaxing pleasure of capturing the beauty of a plant. Suitable for all levels, this course will give you the basics to create botanical drawings and watercolor paintings. Using a variety of plant specimens you will start by exploring drawing techniques (tonal sketching, composition) and creating an outline.
Is a pre-enrolment interview or assessment required for this course?
No.
What level is the course and do I require particular skills, experience or prior qualifications?
The course is suitable for beginners wanting to learn the basic of ancient printing processes.You will benefit from having existing drawing skills and that will allow you to develop your sketches and drawings, pushing them into a different direction.
What topics does the course cover?
Drawing and focusing onto natural shapes is fun and sharpens your observation and concentration skills. You will then learn handling and mixing watercolour, which with its translucency is an ideal medium for describing plants’ structure and colour. Each week your tutor will prepare a presentation for you, rich of imagery and links to source inspiration from and giving you an overview about the following subjects:
- The basics of botany science
- A short history of botanical art and its masters
- Painting and drawing techniques
How will I be taught and assessed?
One to one tuition, group tuition, demonstrations, ILPs, evaluation and assessment which will include personal learning targets based on previous experience and progress during the course.
Are there any other costs or equipment I need to get?
All basic art materials for this course will be supplied. You will be required to bring in some botanical specimens to draw,
By the end of the course what should I be able to do?
You will:
- Understand the basis of botanical drawing, criteria and history across different cultures
- Gained observational drawing skills through targeted exercises
- Practiced a variety of drawing and painting techniques using a different media each week including tonal pencil/ coloured pencils/ watercolours/ inks and nib pens
- Created a botanical drawing portfolio and sketchbook (botanical journal)
- Gained encouragement and information about how to develop your artist practice
What are the progression opportunities following this course?
You can develop your skills or knowledge on one of our specialist short courses, or take an accredited course in Fine Art starting in September and April.