Natural History Illustration: Wildflowers

Overview

In this module we are going to delve into the wonderful world of wildflowers, you will be creating your own sketchbook guide to the local wildflowers in your area using the drawing, painting, and observational skills developed throughout this module. This 5- credit module is suitable for beginner artists in watercolour and drawing techniques within Natural History Illustration and for students who wish to hone their observational drawing and painting skills and create accurate paintings with fine detail and accurate colours. The module will cover drawing with pencil, ink, and watercolour painting techniques. There will also be colour mixing and form drawing techniques with ideas for drawing in the field and creating an informed and accurate visual diary. There will be guides on observation and interesting discussions on habitat and ecology. Some sessions will include two days on location. There will be an Introductory letter on the web site for more details. The early content before attending on location classes will be delivered online.

Programme

Unit 1 – Introduction and overview 'Before we begin'

• Introduction.
• Setting up your workspace.
• Materials.
• Starting your visual journey.

Unit 2 – The wonder of Wildflowers.

• Tips on photography and videoing your subjects
• Presentation on the fascinating ecology of wildflower meadows
• Wildflower picking regulations

Unit 3 –Drawing and Painting tips

• Pencilwork tips and demonstrations on drawing from life.
• Using ink to add contrast and interest.
• Watercolour painting techniques to show accuracy of colour and texture.

Unit 4 – Creating your Visual journey

• Examples of sketchbook ideas to give inspiration.
• Examples of Natural History Illustrators work past and present for inspiration.

Unit 5 – How to Create your own digital Flipbook

• Video demo of how to create your own digital Flipbook.

Learning Outcomes

1. Demonstrate an ability to draw a variety of subjects directly from observation with accuracy and detail, with attention to their textures and tonal contrasts.
2. Demonstrate the painting techniques shown and an understanding of applying these techniques.
3. Create an interesting and engaging Visual Diary to show a progression of research and observations in the field, all using the drawing and painting techniques shown.
4. Create a digital Flipbook to show the story of their Visual Diary in an engaging way

Assessments

1. Unit Tasks - 30%
2. Portfolio - 50%
3. Practical Skills Assessment - 20%

Reading Suggestions

Additional reading list available on request.

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.