2009 WINTER-SPRING CATALOG CERTIFICATE IN BOTANICAL ART AND ILLUSTRATION Botanical art and illustration is the well-established tradition of portraying plants for scientific purposes, recording vanishing species for historical recollection or rendering the beauty and inspiration we experience in the flora of the world around us. Denver Botanic Gardens’ Certificate in Botanical Art and Illustration program is designed to teach a comprehensive series of classes in botanical illustration, offering participants the drawing and painting skills required to render accurate and useful depictions of the plant world with a focus on detail. This program is for the dedicated illustrator, as well as the devoted amateur. It culminates in a certificate for some students and offers an ongoing program of botanical classes for others.
~~~~~~~~~~ Introductory Courses Students wishing to learn more about botanical illustration or brush up on their skills before beginning the certificate sequence can take introductory courses that are not part of the certificate requirements: Introduction to Botanical Illustration, Art Materials for the Botanical Illustrator and Introduction to Drawing in Pencil.
experience in botanical art. In addition to the 13 required courses, you must select 100 elective hours. The number of elective classes offered in any one year may vary. Guest instructor workshops may be taken as electives.
Required Courses The following 13 courses are required if you wish to receive a Certificate in Botanical Art and Illustration. The recommended sequence of courses is listed below. This succession is appropriate for both the certificate and the non-certificate student. Classes can also be taken in the order determined by their prerequisites. Courses consist of exercises, critiques, demonstrations and homework assignments. A list of supplies for each course will be sent with your class confirmation.
Café Botanique – Science and Art Lecture Series This free lecture series is open to Botanical Art and Illustration students, as well as to Gardens members, the general public, academia and artists. There is no admission fee and pre-registration is not required. Participation in one lecture gives one elective credit hour; you can receive a maximum of 15 credit hours from these lectures. The program is posted in Classroom C and on the BI blog, or you can receive information by phone at 720-865-3580.
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Botanical Illustration in Pencil I Botany for the Botanical Illustrator Botanical Illustration in Pencil II Composition for Botanical Illustration Color Layering for Colored Pencil Botanical Illustration in Colored Pencil I Perfecting Perspective Botanical Illustration in Colored Pencil II Color Mixing for Artists Botanical Illustration in Pen and Ink I Botanical Illustration in Pen and Ink II Botanical Illustration in Watercolor I Botanical Illustration in Watercolor II
Elective Courses Elective courses serve a variety of purposes. They are all designed to increase the student’s knowledge, ability and
Please note: To receive credit for any course, attendance is required at the first class and at 80 percent of all classes.
Portfolio Review Upon completion of all course work, you may apply for portfolio review (held each January and June) by requesting a transcript from the Registrar and submitting it to the Program Coordinator when you request your review. Please note: To receive credit for any course, attendance is required at the first class and at 80 percent of each course. The complete portfolio will contain five (5) finished botanical plates: Graphite Colored Pencil Pen and Ink Water media Artist’s choice: This can be a plate in any of the media taught within the program or a combination of them.
BI-BLOG: www.botanicalillustration.blogspot.com 2
GUEST WORKSHOPS Gifts from the Earth: The Value of Pencils with Rhonda Nass Beautiful artwork is created with value: the degree of light and dark in a specific subject. Working in pencil, you'll develop pigment-free values and master seamless gradations from the lightest lights to the darkest darks without the usual graphite sheen. A simple exercise will train each student to draw incredible detail. The graphite-illustrated Gifts from the Earth will be our reference book. Each participant will design a composition and begin an original work using tricks to draw viewers' eyes to the focal point. Value training will improve artwork of any medium and drawing in graphite is so much fun! Fee: $220 member, $264 non-member. Prerequisite: Pencil I Course #09WBI520 Fri. - Sun., Feb. 20 – 22, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. (18 hr) Instructor: Rhonda Nass Rhonda Nass's art career began with her high school art teacher's pronouncement, "You'll never be an artist"--all a stubborn teenager needed to catapult her through a University of WisconsinMadison art degree to owning (along with her husband, Rick) an illustration/art studio, which celebrated its’ 32nd year last month. Artists most influential in Rhonda's work are Caravaggio, Robert Bateman, Wayne Thiebaud and Rick Nass. Her artwork appears in galleries, private and corporate collections, museums and international publications.
© Rhonda Nass
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Archaic Methods and Mediums in Botanical Illustration with Karen Ackoff
© Karen Ackoff
Silverpoint Silverpoint, or "metalpoint", is a venerable technique used by the masters. A pointed wire is pulled across a painted ground, leaving behind a silvery residue that eventually tarnishes. Tone is created from finely layered networks of line, creating the illusion of tone. It lends itself to extremely fine detail not possible with traditional pencil techniques. Silverpoint makes a lovely under-drawing for egg tempera, or can stand on its own. We’ll begin with a brief history of the technique covering grounds and different types of metals used, and showing both historical and contemporary 3
examples. Discussion and demonstration will show you the technique of preparing and laying a ground. Learn to prepare silver wire for use in a lead-holder and prepare a surface accepting of silverpoint drawing. A series of short exercises will develop a feel for the full tonal range of the technique. You’ll complete a drawing of a small specimen to get a feel for this new medium Egg Tempera: A Contemporary Approach Egg tempera is a medium with characteristics unlike modern media. Because it lends itself towards transparency and is also waterproof, colors may be layered, allowing them to show through subsequent applications of color. The surface of an egg tempera painting has a soft sheen that may actually be enhanced by gentle buffing. We’ll explore these and other qualities characteristic to this versatile
medium. Demonstration and discussion will show you traditional methods of preparing a gessoed panel and working with powder pigments. A more modern method employs watercolors, rather than powder pigments, taking away some of the guesswork for the beginner. Both traditional and modern methods permit techniques such as cross-hatching, stippling and scumbling. You’ll explore and experiment with these techniques, and will apply them to a small study. Fee: $220 member, $264 non-member. Prerequisite: Pencil I Course #09WBI530 Fri. - Sun., Apr. 17 – 19, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. (18 hr) Instructor: Karen Ackoff
© Karen Ackoff
Karen Ackoff has a B.F.A. in Illustration from Philadelphia College of Art and an M.F.A. in Medical Illustration from Rochester Institute of Technology. Ms. Ackoff has been a practicing artist for more than 30 years. She began her career illustrating children's educational textbooks. Longing to combine her love of science and the natural world, Ms. Ackoff pursued graduate study in medical illustration, focusing on veterinary medicine and the natural sciences. Ms. Ackoff worked for 10 years as Scientific Illustrator in the Department of Anthropology at the Smithsonian Institution. She worked on a variety of projects, including the Handbook of North American Indians—a 20-volume encyclopedia. She presently teaches and coordinates the Graphic Design Program at Indiana University South Bend
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INTRODUCTORY COURSES Art Materials for the Botanical Illustrator Take the mystery out of materials. I see ten types of erasers--which one is right for the job? What is the difference between sable and synthetic? What’s vellum? This information-packed class will provide you with detailed information about all of the art materials used throughout the Botanical Illustration program. From papers to pencils to inks, pens, brushes, and paints, you’ll learn where and how to find all the right materials and how they are used. Save time and money by shopping expertly the first time Fee: $39 member, $44 non-member. All students are welcome, with no prerequisites. Course #09WBI410-1 Sat., Feb. 28, 9 a.m. – noon Instructor: Renee Jorgensen
Introduction to Drawing Are you new to drawing? If you can write with a pencil, you can draw with one. Step-by-step, acquire the techniques you need to draw what you see. Simple exercises train you to observe objectively and draw accurately. A relaxed pace and straightforward instruction will open your mind to your own creative abilities. Build drawing skills to enter the Botanical Illustration program with confidence. Fee: $183 member, $220 non-member. All students are welcome, with no prerequisites. Course #09WBI110-1 Weekend Workshop Fri. – Sun., March 6 - 8, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Instructor: Karla Beatty Course #09WBI110-2 Tue., March 24, 31, Apr. 7, 14, 21, 6 – 9 p.m. Instructor: Renee Jorgensen
Course #09WBI410-2 Sat., May 23, 9 a.m. – noon Instructor: Renee Jorgensen
REQUIRED COURSES Botany for the Botanical Illustrator What is the difference between a carpel and a pistil? Where can I find the stamen? The science of the subjects you draw determines what you see! Put away your pencils for this enlightening lab class designed specifically for students of Botanical Illustration. Take a close look at plant anatomy and learn to recognize botanical details that will make your drawings more accurate and realistic. Learn plant morphology through detailed instruction and supporting visuals. All of your botanical art will improve when you understand the subjects. Fee $183 member, $220 non-member. All students are welcome, with no prerequisites. Course #09WBI240-1 Tue., Jan.13, 20, 27, Feb. 3, 10, 9 a.m. – noon Instructor: Mervi Hjelmroos-Koski Course #09WBI240-2 Mon., Apr. 27, May 4, 11, 18, 25, 1 – 4 p.m. Instructor: Mervi Hjelmroos-Koski
Composition for Botanical Illustration The arrangement of lines, shapes and color in artwork is an art form in itself. The difference
between a pleasant picture and amazing artwork is often found in composition. Using a visual presentation, this course begins with a study of recognized masters and contemporary illustrators. Learn to how build botanical composition by using compositional elements and principles. Exercises in creating your own sample compositions gives insight and expertise to enhance all of your future illustrations. Fee $183 member, $220 non-member. All students are welcome, with no prerequisites. Course #09WBI220-1 Thurs., Jan. 15, 22, 29, Feb. 5, 12, 9 a.m. – noon Instructor: Marjorie Leggitt Course #09WBI220-2 Wed., May 27, June 3, 10, 17, July 1, 9 a.m. – noon Instructor: Marjorie Leggitt
Botanical Illustration in Pencil I Learn to draw! Begin with a brief history and an overview of the specific elements of botanical illustration. Learn the skills of careful observation and realistic drawing in graphite pencil, including line drawing, shading and perspective. Step-by-step, 5
added techniques help you portray perspective, texture and detail. This is the entry course for every program student and the prerequisite for all courses to follow. You'll emerge from this class with the tools you need to draw anything. Fee $183 member, $220 non-member. All students are welcome, with no prerequisites. Note: If you have no previous drawing experience, consider starting with Introduction to Drawing. Course #09WBI200-1 Wed., Jan. 14, 21, 28, Feb. 4, 11, 1 – 4 p.m. Instructor: Renee Jorgensen Course #09WBI200-2 Weekend Workshop Fri. – Sun., March 13, 14, 15, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Instructor: Renee Jorgensen Course #09WBI200-3 Wed., May 6, 13, 20, 27, June 3, 6 – 9 p.m. Instructor: Karla Beatty
Botanical Illustration in Pencil II Simple and classic, pencil drawing is a timeless art form. Expand on the drawing skills you learned in Pencil I as you reinforce and refine your knowledge of graphite pencil. Learn additional techniques for shading, texture, perspective, depth, composition and style. A good drawing is the basis of botanical illustration in any medium. Group instruction and individual attention are tailored to help you complete a finished botanical plate in this subtle and striking medium. Fee $183 member, $220 non-member. Prerequisite: Pencil I Course #09WBI300-1 Thurs., Feb.19, 26, March 5, 12, 19, 1 – 4 p.m. Instructor: Marjorie Leggitt Course #09WBI300-2 Mon., March 23, 30, Apr. 6, 13, 20, 6 – 9 p.m. Instructor: Karla Beatty
Perfecting Perspective Do you shy away from the complicated plants? Even experienced illustrators sometimes struggle with foreshortening and simplify their subjects to eliminate the difficult elements. Learn to see the correct shape of an ellipse and finding the angle of the element pointing to you, to create 3-D depth on a 2-D surface. You’ll work with botanical subjects that demonstrate each aspect of perspective and learn
techniques for seeing and depicting perspective accurately. Complete a simple final piece that shows your new understanding of perspective principles. The class will work entirely in graphite pencil, as the principles apply to all art media. Gain confidence in your drafting skills and improve all of your drawings from this class forward. Fee $183 member, $220 non-member. Prerequisite: Pencil I Course #09WBI630 Weekend Workshop Fri. – Sun., Apr. 24 - 26. 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Instructor: Marjorie Leggitt
Botanical Illustration in Pen and Ink I Pen and Ink is at the heart of botanical illustration. Expand your drawing repertoire as you learn techniques to create line, form and texture in black and white. ‘Expressive line’ and ‘stipple’ become part of your artistic vocabulary as you practice this traditional illustration medium with modern and versatile technical pens. Step-by-step instruction, demonstration and practice will give you the foundation you need to draw any botanical subject accurately and skillfully. Fee $183 member, $220 non-member. Prerequisite: Pencil I Course #09WBI250-1 Thurs., Jan. 15, 22, 29, Feb.5, 12, 1 – 4 p.m. Instructor: Marjorie Leggitt Course #09WBI250-2 Tue., Apr. 28, May 5, 12, 19, 26, 6 – 9 p.m. Instructor: Renee Jorgensen
Botanical Illustration in Pen and Ink II Take your pen and ink skills to a new level of sophistication. Explore the garden’s limitless world of color, textures and complex botany and incorporate this information into your black and white illustrations. Working with both technical pen and quill, learn advanced techniques to make strokes mimic the fuzz on a fern, the down of a milkweed pod, the mottled colors of a variegated begonia. Learn how to layer and manipulate lines and stipples to develop a full range of value, texture and atmospheric perspective. Pen techniques take on new meaning as you flesh out a final inked illustration from a plant of your choice. Fee $183 member, $220 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Pen and Ink I Course #09WBI320-1 6
Tue., Feb.17, 24, March 3, 10, 17, 6 – 9 p.m. Instructor: Marjorie Leggitt Course #09WBI320-2 Wed., May 27, June 3, 10, 17, July 1, 1 – 4 p.m. Instructor: Marjorie Leggitt
Color Layering for Colored Pencil Colored pencil presents a special challenge--mixing color directly on your drawing! Learn to use a simple color mixing method, adapted to the application of colored pencils. Two-, three- and four-color mixing will get you to the gorgeous greens and luscious lilacs you’ve been missing. Learn to gauge shadow colors for vibrant results. Match a variety of plant material as you create your own, extensive color workbook to speed color selection and application for all future colored pencil drawings. Fee $183 member, $220 non-member. Prerequisite: Pencil I Course #09WBI400-1 Mon., Feb.16, 23, March 2, 9, 16, 6 – 9 p.m. Instructor: Susan Rubin Course #09WBI400-2 Mon., June 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, 9 a.m. – noon Instructor: Susan Rubin
Botanical Illustration in Colored Pencil I Explore this modern medium! You’ve learned to layer colored pencil, now learn techniques to draw effectively in this medium. Apply your drawing skills and learn new methods specific to colored pencils. Techniques include layering, building and burnishing in color. This versatile, portable medium is perfect for sketching on location as well as producing studio pieces. Learn through instruction, demonstration and practice on small studies of botanical subjects. You’ll be ready to produce a finished plate in Colored Pencil II. Fee $183 member, $220 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I and Color Layering for Colored Pencil Course #09WBI230 Mon., Feb.16, 23, March 2, 9, 16, 1 – 4 p.m. Instructor: Susan Rubin
Botanical Illustration in Colored Pencil II Take your colored pencil basics to the next level. Walk through the Six Step process to create a preparatory layered drawing. Learn about grisaille
and techniques to create texture, detail and depth to enhance your subject. Experiment with different surfaces, blending and shading. Sample special effects you can achieve with colored pencil on Mylar, colored and dark grounds. Group instruction and individual attention help you to become proficient in this versatile medium. Pull all of your colored pencil skills together to create a finished botanical plate. Fee $183 member, $220 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Color Layering for Colored Pencil and Colored Pencil I Course #09WBI310 Wed., March 25, Apr. 8, 15, 22, 29, 6 – 9 p.m. Instructor: Susan Rubin
Color Mixing for Artists The first step to watercolor painting is mixing colors. Learn a system for combining colors consistently so you can eliminate frustrating trial and error. Lots of exercises, demonstrations and discussion will show you how to achieve the broadest possible spectrum. Learn about paint properties and important information about choosing pigments. Practice mixing colors to match a variety of plant material. You’ll gain confidence and skills to improve all of your color work. Fee $183 member, $220 non-member. All students are welcome, with no prerequisites. Course #09WBI210-1 Mon., Jan.12, 19, 26, Feb. 2, 9, 1 – 4 p.m. Instructor: Constance Sayas Course #09WBI210-2 Tue., June 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 1 – 4 p.m. Instructor: Constance Sayas
Botanical Illustration in Watercolor I Become part of the watercolor botanical tradition. Combine drawing skills and your knowledge of color mixing as you discover the delight of putting brush to paper and learn the specific techniques of transparent watercolor. Instruction, demonstration and practical exercises will guide you through a variety of watercolor techniques: flat and graded washes, highlights and dry brush detail. Learn to build washes for depth of tone and shading, and how to create soft and hard edges. With these foundational skills you’ll be ready to create a finished plate in Watercolor II. Fee $183 member, $220 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I and Color Mixing for Artists 7
Course #09WBI260-1 Tue., Jan.13, 20, 27, Feb. 3, 10, 6 – 9 p.m. Instructor: Karla Beatty Course #09WIB260-2 Tue., March 24, 31, Apr. 7, 14, 21, 1 – 4 p.m. Instructor: Constance Sayas
Botanical Illustration in Watercolor II Watercolor basics got you started—now develop your confidence and personal style. The emphasis here is on bringing it all together. Learn and refine additional techniques through instruction,
demonstration and practice with special attention given to layering, shading and building form. Discover brush techniques and colors that enhance perspective and depth. Follow painting steps through completion, from broad washes to final detail. Learn how to fix mistakes and understand why watercolor is a forgiving medium. You’ll work toward completing a finished plate from a live specimen in this most traditional of botanical media. Fee $183 member, $220 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Color Mixing for Artists and Watercolor I Course #09WBI330 Wed., Feb.18, 25, March 4, 11, 18, 1 – 4 p.m. Instructor: Constance Sayas
ELECTIVE COURSES Finishing Studio Are you stuck? Stalled? Stumped? Help is on the way! Bring your unfinished botanical piece for advice on how to continue, guidance to help fix mistakes, and recommendations for unconsidered issues. Individual attention, demonstrations and input from other students in a safe, constructive atmosphere of camaraderie will assure that you move forward toward completion of your work-inprogress. You will be glad you chose this class! Fee $183 member, $220 non-member. Prerequisite: Pencil I Course #09WBI120 Tue., March 24, 31, Apr. 7, 14, 21, 9 a.m. – noon Instructor: Constance Sayas
Techniques Giclée Printing Made Easy Curious about having prints made but apprehensive about the time and expense involved? In just one day we’ll introduce you to the process of Giclée printing. Starting with an overview of different printing processes, you will then learn how to prepare your artwork for prints, the advantages of this method of printing, and what to do with the prints once you have them. A professional printer will address the technical side of the process and bring you up-to date on costs. Once you understand the procedure, you can make an educated decision about what and when to print. Fee: $61 member, $73 non-member. All students are welcome, with no prerequisites.
Course #09WBI130 May 29, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Instructor: Susan Rubin
Framing Botanical Art Get your work off the drawing board and onto the wall! This 1-day workshop covers the options that will help you to present your art to its best advantage. Learn the steps to the conservation techniques that preserve your pieces in an acid-free environment. We’ll cover all the details of framing materials, styles and embellishments, and you’ll frame a small piece to practice. Whether you decide to frame it yourself or work with a professional, you’ll be more confident in your framing decisions. Fee $61 member, $73 non-member. All students are welcome, with no prerequisites. Course #09WBI140 May 30, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Instructor: Susan Rubin
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Hand Lettering Discover the beautiful art of calligraphic lettering! Whether you are labeling your botanical artwork, taking notes in your sketchbook or jotting entries into your garden diary, this wonderful art form adds the final touch. Learn the basics of calligraphic lettering style, proper form and process, and how to use it for scientific labeling and other creative uses. Fee $183 member, $220 non-member. Prerequisite: Pencil I Course #09WBI150 Wed., Jan.14, 21, 28, Feb. 4, 11, 6 – 9 p.m. Instructor: Renee Jorgensen
©J. Stevens
Light on Form Take your drawings from flat to fabulous. The secret to portraying light and shadow on your subjects lies in understanding the scientific method of lighting as it applies to different forms. Beginning with basic geometric shapes, refine your skills in showing light and volume on any subject. The class will work entirely in graphite pencil, as the principles apply to all other media. As you progress to fruits and vegetables, leaves, flowers, and ultimately entire plants with complex combinations of shapes, you will overcome the obstacles in creating threedimensional drawings. Fee $183 member, $220 non-member. Prerequisite: Pencil I Course #09WBI160 Thurs., Apr. 23, 30, May 7, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Instructor: Susan Rubin
Perfecting Perspective II Gain a fresh perspective! Begin with studies geared to underscore your understanding of depth and atmosphere. Using layered plant material, you’ll step beyond the basics learned in Perfecting Perspective. Demonstrations and guided exercises will show you additional techniques in creating line studies, value mapping and blocking. Your advanced skills will prepare you to select a live specimen and work through the process of completing a botanical plate. All work will be in graphite pencil, as the principles apply to all media. Fee $183 member, $220 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I and Perfecting Perspective I Course #09WBI170 Tue., Feb. 17, 24, March 3, 10, 17, 1 – 4 p.m. Instructor: Marjorie Leggitt
Draw from your Photos You photographed the Hibiscus in Hawaii . . . you want to draw those alpine plants and aren’t allowed to pick them . . . There are times when a live specimen is simply not an option. Discover how to work from your own photographs to create a successful illustration long after the specimen is gone. Start with instruction on taking effective photos for reference. Learn techniques to interpret and alter composition, color and lighting that will bring life to your work and avoid that literal “drawn from a photo” look. Use your new skills to create a lasting plant portrait from your own photograph in the medium of your choice. Fee $183 member, $220 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Pencil II and Level I of a color medium Course #09WBI180 Wed., Feb. 18, 25, March 4, 11, 18, 9 a.m. – noon
Watercolor: Dry Brush Techniques The secret to depicting specific details is the dry brush technique! Dry brush is the traditional watercolor method of working with small strokes and limited use of washes. Improve your brushhandling skills and develop increased control with guided exercises. Practice paint layering techniques to create vibrant color surfaces and sharp, clear details. This class is sure to build your confidence and make your next watercolor project work for you. Fee $183 member, $220 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Color Mixing for Artists and Watercolor I Course #09WBI190-1 Thurs., Feb.19, 26, March 5, 12, 19, 9 a.m. – noon Instructor: Karla Beatty 9
Course #09WBI190-2 Mon., Apr. 27, May 4, 11, 18, 25, 6 – 9 p.m. Instructor: Karla Beatty
beautiful yellow botanical. Fee $183 member, $220 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Color Mixing for Artists and Watercolor I Course #09WBI360 Thurs., May 14, 21, 28, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Instructor: Constance Sayas Digital Techniques
(© Karla Beatty, Daffodil Bulb)
Grays and Browns of Winter in WaterColor It’s the perfect season to perfect your color mixing skills for the delectable neutrals. Create those elusive warm brown tones. Mix a range of subtle grays. Everything you need to mix a full range of browns and grays is in your color mixing palette. Learn to analyze neutrals as you put color theory in action. Take the mystery out of blending and make color mixing intuitive and precise. You’ll put your new color sense to work to paint dried winter weeds in a botanical plate that will remind you of winter’s delights. Fee $183 member, $220 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Color Mixing for Artists and Watercolor I Course #09WBI350 Mon., March 23, 30, Apr. 6, 13, 20, 1 – 4 p.m. Instructor: Karla Beatty
Elusive Yellows in Watercolor Master and explore the subtleties of yellow hues as you paint fruits and flowers. Begin with examples of how other botanical illustrators have handled this topic. Then through demonstration and practice, learn to create the best color mixes to convey shading for form, volume, overlap and shadow while keeping yellows bright. Learn how to apply shadow colors using both glazing and feathering techniques. Practice the range of yellows from soft to striking. Finish the class by completing a finished plate of a
Adobe Illustrator I Leave your paintbrush at home, and bring your computer to learn the basics of Adobe Illustrator—a program necessary to produce vector artwork. Starting at the very beginning, learn how to “draw” with your Wacom tablet and stylus. Exercises emphasize the use of Bezier curves to create shapes using both the mouse and the pen tool. Simple and straightforward instruction will introduce you to the most utilized tools and a few of the palettes. As with any new skill, practice makes perfect, so learn the essentials and then progress to Adobe Illustrator II. You will need a laptop computer with current Adobe Illustrator (CS 3 or CS 4) software installed (a 30day trial version is available for free), Wacom “Intuos” tablet, minimum 6”X8”, with all software and hardware installed on your laptop.
(© Marjorie Leggitt, Terminalia arjuna) 10
Make sure your laptop will support versions Adobe CS3 or 4. Fee $183 member, $220 nonmember. Prerequisites: Pencil I Course #09WBI370 Weekend Workshop Fri. – Sun., March 20 – 22, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Instructor: Marjorie Leggitt
Adobe Illustrator II You’re closer to creating artwork on your computer! Starting where Adobe Illustrator I left off, explore new tools and palettes and build more complex images. We’ll introduce Live Trace, simple gradations and working text into your images. Time permitting, a demonstration of 3D modeling will show you more possibilities with this flexible and responsive program. You will need a laptop computer with current Adobe Illustrator (CS 3 or CS 4) software installed (a 30-day trial version is available for free), Wacom “Intuos” tablet, minimum 6”X8”, with all software and hardware installed on your laptop. Make sure your laptop will support versions Adobe CS3 or 4. Fee $183 member, $220 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Adobe Illustrator I Course #09WBI380 Weekend Workshop Fri. – Sun., March 27 – 29, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Instructor: Marjorie Leggitt
Adobe InDesign Create your own multi-page presentations books, brochures and posters! Learn to design master layouts, insert pictures and graphics, and change fonts easily. InDesign collects all the text, image files and typeface files to print your document exactly as you imagined it. InDesign can also be used with other Adobe programs such as Illustrator and Photoshop to design all aspects of your product. You will need a laptop computer with current Adobe InDesign (CS 3 or CS 4) software installed (a 30-day trial version is available for free). Fee $183 member, $220 non-member. Course #09WBI390 Weekend Workshop Fri. – Sun., Apr. 3 – 5, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Instructor: Anna Hjelmroos
possibilities. Examples, discussion, demonstrations and practice will help you learn the basic skills you’ll need to work in reverse; grisaille in white, adding highlights while saving darks, and achieving pale or brilliant color. The conservatory will be the inspiration to choose a tropical plant for a finished plate on black paper. Fee $183 member, $220 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Pencil II, Color Layering for Colored Pencil and Colored Pencil I Course #09WBI430 Tue., Jan.13, 20, 27, Feb. 3, 10, 1 – 4 p.m. Instructor: Susan Rubin
Colored Pencil III: Working on Mylar Expand your options in colored pencil! Frosted Mylar film provides a wonderful surface for smooth, brilliant colored pencil work. Learn the skills specific to this surface, including pencil application and layering techniques, how to make the back of the surface enhance the front, and how to erase (yes, erase!) colored pencil from Mylar. See how layering your drawing over other surfaces expands the possibilities for your finished work. Samples, demonstrations and individual help will guide you to a finished piece. Fee $183 member, $220 nonmember. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Color Layering for Colored Pencil, Colored Pencil I, Colored Pencil I and Colored Pencil II Course #09WBI440 Wed., March 25, Apr. 8, 15, 22, 29, 1 – 4 p.m. Instructor: Susan Rubin
(© Susan Rubin)
Colored Pencil Colored Pencil: Tropical Plants on Black A new twist on using colored pencils! Using black paper creates a vibrant result with varied 11
Water Media Watercolor: Winter’s Bits of Beauty “Everything has its beauty but not everyone sees it” (Confucius, 551-479 BC). Discover the hidden charms of plants in winter. Explore and expose the extraordinary textures and tones from ordinary and often overlooked subjects. Learn to mix the subtle neutral colors often seen in dried bits such as twigs, bark, seedpods and crinkled leaves. Refine your dry brush skills, using techniques appropriate for depicting texture and detail. Paint intimate studies of winter’s botanical bits. It’s a perfect fit for those who believe that beauty is in the details. Fee $183 member, $220 nonmember. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Color Mixing for Artists and Watercolor I Course #09WBI450 Mon., Jan.12, 19, 26, Feb. 2, 9, 6 – 9 p.m. Instructor: Constance Sayas
Gouache Expand your water media repertoire with gouache— a medium similar to watercolor. Composed of opaque pigments thickened with gum arabic, gouache differs from watercolor in its higher pigment content, more brilliant light-reflecting quality, and opacity that allows you to paint over mistakes. By varying application, gouache can be transparent or opaque, and you’ll learn to choose the best approach for your subject. Through demonstration and practice, discover the methods for applying gouache to create a finished botanical plate from a live specimen. Fee $183 member, $220 nonmember. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Color Mixing for Artists and Watercolor I Course #09WBI460 Wed., Feb.18, 25, March 4, 11, 18, 6 – 9 p.m. Instructor: Constance Sayas
Transparent Acrylics Explore a wonderful water medium! Though transparent acrylic looks similar to watercolor, different application techniques produce luminous results. Acquire the skills, using a simple color palette to transform acrylic paint into sheer layers. Spring bulbs present their own challenges, including complex form, a short life when cut, and translucent, overlapping petals. Step-by-step instruction, demonstration and exercises will help you to create your own lasting botanical portrait in transparent acrylic.
Fee $183 member, $220 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I and Color Mixing for Artists Course#09WBI470 Thurs., March 26, Apr. 2, 16, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Instructor: Marjorie Leggitt
The Treasures of Fairmount’s Rose Garden III Historic Fairmount Cemetery boasts more than 300 roses of at least 59 varieties, many of them from the 1800s. Participate in the preservation of these beauties through botanical illustration. Start by studying rose paintings from the masters of the past such as Alfred Parsons and Pierre Joseph Redouté. Learn how to draw the complex petal configurations. Practice techniques, from wet-on-wet to dry brush, and how to use them appropriately. Visit Fairmount and advance your skills as you learn to capture the important aspects of roses where they grow. Take your field sketches, notes and a clipping from a specimen to the classroom to create a finished watercolor painting of these gorgeous blossoms. Try this class for the first time or come back after last year’s session. Your finished work may be included in a planned publication. Fee $244 member, $294 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Color Mixing for Artists and Watercolor I Course #09WBI480 Thurs., Fri., June 4 – 5 & 11 – 12, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. (20 hrs) Instructor: Constance Sayas
(© Constance Sayas, detail from Rosa 'Linda Campbell')
Drawing on Tradition Nature and Flora Illuminated A modern take on medieval masterwork! Illumination is the embellishment of a decorated letter with gold, brilliant color and illustrations of 12
Only 33 plates ever went to print, and the costs left Thornton destitute. His loss was our gain. Study the plates in the Helen Fowler Library to learn about composition and style, then do a decidedly western take on the Temple of Flora, using regional plants and the appropriate western landscapes as background. Advance your skills in composition and drawing and try landscape as well. You’ll create your plate in the color medium of your choice for our own Temple of Flora. Fee $183 member, $220 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I and Level II in any color medium. Course #09WBI510 Mon., June 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, 1 – 4 p.m. Instructor: Susan Rubin
nature. Explore this traditional and appealing art form used to decorate text throughout the Medieval and Renaissance periods. Bring your drawing skills and explore new techniques for uniting ornamental letterforms with botanical illustration. Lecture, demonstration and guidance help you learn the basic design tenets and compose your own stylized and romantic illumination of a favorite letter with botanical ornamentation. Fee $183 member, $220 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I and Pen and Ink I Course #09WBI490 Tue., Apr. 28, May 5, 12, 19, 26, 1 – 4 p.m. Instructor: Renee Jorgensen
Maud Purdy and the Microscope When Maud H. Purdy (1873-1965) became an artist in the late 19th Century, she was considered to be a new type of woman: self-directed, outspoken and highly skilled. As the chief iris illustrator for the Brooklyn Botanic Gardens in the 1920s, she launched a prolific and significant body of work that would later earn her the title, “best botany illustrator in America”. Begin with an overview of Purdy’s work of unusual beauty and learn how it also served science. You’ll use the microscope to understand the botanical details of your flower and learn to master micro techniques to study the ovary and flower development. Careful instruction will prepare you to create an elegant plate in the medium of your choice, illustrating the exposed internal structures of your flower in the style of Maud Purdy. Fee $183 member, $220 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I and Level I in a color medium of your choice is strongly recommended. Course #09WBI500 Wed., May 6, 13, 20, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Instructor: Mervi Hjelmroos-Koski (Robert Thornton, Temple of Flora)
Temple of Flora meets the Wild West Robert Thornton was a British physician with an expensive hobby. He sought to commission Philip Reinagle to complete 70 botanical plates, portraying exotic plants and their landscapes in opulent detail.
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BI-BLOG: www.botanicalillustration.blogspot.com
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SIX EASY WAYS TO REGISTER 1. BY TELEPHONE: 720-865-3580 2. BY FAX: 720-865-3685 (24 HOURS) 3. IN PERSON: VISIT THE EDUCATION OFFICE AT THE GARDENS, 1005 YORK STREET, 9 A.M. – 4 P.M., MONDAY – FRIDAY
4. BY MAIL: ATTENTION: REGISTRATION COORDINATOR, 909 YORK STREET, DENVER, CO 80206 5. ONLINE: WWW.BOTANICGARDENS.ORG 6.
E-MAIL:
[email protected]
Refund and Cancellation Policy: Denver Botanic Gardens will refund 100 percent of the BI-course tuition if the registrar is contacted at least three working days (Monday-Friday) prior to the class start date. For cancellations received after the cut-off date, but before the commencement of the course, requests for refunds are assessed on a case-to-case basis. There will be no refund for no-shows. After Course has Commenced: As all requirements have been prepared in expectation of your attendance, no refunds are possible. Instructors have no authority to grant or promise refunds. In the event of family emergency or because of inclement weather circumstances, the student can later complete the course by taking the missed classes from the same instructor and notifying the registrar 2 weeks before the course starts. If 60-80 percent of the course is missed because of the family emergency or the inclement weather circumstances, the course can be re-taken from any instructor in that media if space is available. This reservation and cancellation policy applies to all course registrations in the Botanical Art and Illustration Program at Denver Botanic Gardens that have been confirmed by the registrar. Denver Botanic Gardens regrets that it cannot make exceptions to this reservation and cancellation policy for any reason. Selected courses have additional cancellation and refund requirements printed with the course description. Certificate credit requirements for individual courses: Attendance is required at the first class for all courses. In order to receive credit, 80 percent of a course must be attended (at least 12 hours of a 15-hour course).
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