Botanical Art
This course introduces students to the delicate and detailed world of botanical art. Combining scientific observation with artistic skill, students will learn to accurately draw and paint plants, flowers and foliage while developing their own creative voice. From traditional techniques to modern styles, the course explores a variety of media and methods to capture the beauty and structure of the natural world. Students will build a portfolio of botanical artworks and gain insight into both the history and the contemporary relevance of botanical illustration.
Key Information
COURSE SYLLABUS
| Department | Arts |
| Course Length | 10 weeks |
| Live Lessons | One 45-minute lesson per week |
| Homework | Approximately half an hour a week |
| Examination | None |
| Entry Requirements | Pupils need to have an enthusiasm for drawing and an interest in plants. |
Course Syllabus
| Lesson 1 | History, Purpose, and Inspiration in Botanical Art from the 15th Century to now. |
| Lesson 2 | Artist study exploring a variety of European 17th and 18th century artists. |
| Lesson 3 | Developing the artist study using watercolour or watercolour pencils to capture detail. |
| Lesson 4 | Marianne North: a painter’s approach to botanical illustration. |
| Lesson 5 | Developing colour and detail on Marianne North studies. |
| Lesson 6 | The Arts and Crafts movement and William Morris: nature in art and architecture |
| Lesson 7 | Developing ideas for a contemporary work of art inspired by botanical art. |
| Lesson 8 | Contemporary botanical art and use of digital media and mixed media |
| Lesson 9 | Personal Style and Creative Expression in Botanical Art to create an individual response |
| Lesson 10 | Develop individual work to create and present a personal response piece |