This introduction
to botanical painting for absolute beginners will help develop your
understanding, observation and study of plants, flowers and fruit. Starting
with drawing exercises, techniques and colour theory, you will then pursue your
own approach and style to create personal and individual work, while always
focussing on the detail and intricate study of the subject. You will be
encouraged to be a little adventurous and flexible, which will help you to
portray as much information about the subject matter as possible. All tools and
materials will be supplied, together with a selection of plants, flowers and
fruit to study.
During the course of the week you will be taught a variety of
drawing exercises, which will encourage you to develop your own personal style
and way of working. Much of the initial work will be sketchbook based looking
at plants, flowers, fruit and vegetables.
Though most materials are provided - students are asked to bring any
relevant media such as images of interest or any past work.
Monday - Drawing and loosening up, linking the eye to the hand.
Working with a limited colour palette.
Tuesday - Drawing with accuracy and speed, looking at form and shape,
creating tones, sketching and painting.
Wednesday - Drawing and painting texture - understanding scale and
balancing your paper.
Thursday & Friday - Expanding and stretching your knowledge and
understanding through individual work. Working towards your final piece/pieces.
Kate Bennett
About Kate
Kate has always maintained an interest in
botanical painting. Having completed a degree in Textile Design at Winchester
School of Art, Kate then became a textile designer working in London for
Colefax & Fowler and then in New York for 10 years. Kate returned to Art
School in 2001 where she completed a further degree in Visual Art and has now
come full circle to pursue her love of Botanical Painting where she now lives
and teaches in a small Hampshire village.
Kate believes that if you can write then
you can draw particularly with guidance, practise and patient encouragement.
