Natural History Studies: The Early Illustrators

What is the origin of the study of Natural History Illustration? Who were the early illustrators and what motivated them to record the natural world? What can we learn today from these early illustrators?
This module will introduce students to the history of natural history illustration. We will explore the history of the discipline from pre-history to the 19th century, considering how time, place, culture, and scientific understanding have influenced the work of illustrators. By examining key figures across different time periods and cultures (from Shen Nung, to Maria Sibylla Merian, to John James Audubon), students will gain a deeper understanding of how natural history illustration began, and why these early illustrators still have relevance to the field today. Either knowingly or unknowingly, illustrators throughout the ages have recorded the human impact on the planet, many historic illustrations of insects, plants and animals are the only record we have of now extinct species. Is this study as relevant today?
You will be asked to undertake all units, create a timeline and write a personal project.

Note

This module is at CQFW Level 4