Natural History Illustration: Seaweeds and their Benefit to Society

 

Natural History Illustration: Seaweeds and their Benefit to Society can be studied as a stand-alone course and is an optional course for the Certificate of Higher Education in Natural History Studies at Aberystwyth University.

Key Facts

 

Language: English

Duration: TBC

Number of Credits: 05

Tutor: Tereska Shepherd

Learning Method: Online

Level: This module is at CQFW Level 4

Module Code: XK18405

Fee: £70.00 - Fee Waiver Scheme available

This course is available to book.

 

Overview

This short, online course will cover a variety of specialist watercolour drawing techniques and materials for capturing a wide variety of seaweed types, their colours, forms and unique characteristics.

This is an ideal course for anyone undertaking field studies as well as art courses, who wish to develop their observational and recording skills and knowledge of this fascinating subject. We will also cover how seaweed is becoming an important plant extract for many new processes - both nutritional and commercial resources. Compositions and techniques of contemporary and historical artists will also be discussed. Demonstrations and individual advice and assistance will be given with online tutorial support. 

Programme

The course will be packed full of tutor demonstrations and guidance followed by student practical work in:

  • Drawing techniques for different seaweed types: depicting volume, tone and form.
  • Drawing with the brush.
  • Colour mixing for seaweeds.
  • Demonstration of wet on wet wash techniques – capturing subtle colours and variations in tone.
  • Watercolour techniques specific to certain seaweed types.

Learning Outcomes

On completion of this module, students should be able to:  

  1. Demonstrate techniques which allow the accurate depiction, in watercolour, of the form, textures, colours, patterns and detail of a variety of seaweed types.
  2. Demonstrate problem solving and the exploration of techniques, colour mixing, materials and composition.
  3. Demonstrate analysis of the role and artwork of historical and contemporary Natural History painters and realise seaweed's nutritional and commercial opportunities.

Assessments

  1. Study book 60%
  2. Painting 30%
  3. Personal project 10%

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.