Botanical Illustration 1

Overview

This blended module provides an introduction to the art of Botanical Illustration and there is a heavy emphasis on drawing from observation. The history of botanical illustration, scientific techniques and terminology will be explored, thus giving the student an insight into and understanding of species and the structure of plants.

Programme

Botanical Illustration 1 will cover botanical drawing in graphite and watercolour painting techniques to depict a variety of plant forms, with accuracy of colour, detail, tone, form and attention to composition. Drawing from life will be preferred and encouraged. Some knowledge of watercolour will be preferable although not essential but for watercolour beginners.

Syllabus:

• Varied paint techniques
• Use of brushes
• Accurate scale
• Working to scale directly from observation
• Early herbals for identification and medicinal use; the limitation and ex-pense of woodcuts; the start of the tradition of hand colouring; astrological botany
• Development of copperplate engraving 16th and 17th centuries; the rise of specialist cultivation of flowers; discovery and recording of new botanical species
• 17th century florigeums; decorative plant illustration for commercial design; the use of patronage to meet printing costs
• 18th century development of scientific plant classification; the rise of botanic gardens; the Linnaean system of plant classification; use of microscopes; exploration, collection and recording of floras; the role of women as explorers, artists and colourists; anthologies of rare and new plants.
• Traditions and limitations of hand colouring; difficulties of colour printing and introduction of new pigments; role of foreign artists recruited to paint in the English style.

Assessments

1. To produce a visual diary/sketchbook with evidence of all study, exercises, collated images with research and body of art-work for 20% of marks.
2. To produce a finished watercolour composition of your chosen subjects using all of the techniques that you've learned throughout the module and other work completed in the portfolio for 80% 

Reading Suggestions

Reading suggestions will be offered throughout the course.

Entry Requirements

This course is for everyone. No previous experience is needed and there are no formal entry requirements.

What Do I Need?

A list of materials, not included in the course fees, will be available prior to the course start date.