SUMMER/FALL 2011 BOTANICAL ART & ILLUSTRATION

Certificate ProgramBotanical Illustration is the place where art and science unite with beautiful results.

SUMMER/FALL 2011 CATALOGCERTIFICATE 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 record 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 offer a comprehensive series of classes in botanical illustration, providing 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 COURSEStudents wishing to learn more about botanical illustration, or to brush up on their skills before beginning the certificate sequence, can take Introduction to Botanical Illustration, which is not part of the certificate requirements.

REQUIRED COURSESThe following 13 courses are required if you wish to receive a Certificate in Botanical Art and Illustration. The recom-mended sequence of courses is listed below. This succession is appropriate for both the certificate and the non-certificate student. Classes should be taken in the order determined by their prerequisites. Courses consist of exercises, critiques, demonstrations and homework assignments. A list of sup-plies for each course will be sent with class confirmation.

1. Botanical Illustration in Pencil I2. Botany for the Botanical Illustrator 3. Botanical Illustration in Pencil II4. Composition for Botanical Illustration5. Color Layering for Colored Pencil 6. Botanical Illustration in Colored Pencil I7. Perfecting Perspective 8. Botanical Illustration in Colored Pencil II9. Color Mixing for Artists10. Botanical Illustration in Pen and Ink I11. Botanical Illustration in Pen and Ink II12. Botanical Illustration in Watercolor I13. Botanical Illustration in Watercolor II

ELECTIVE COURSESElective courses serve a variety of purposes. They are designed to increase the student’s knowledge, ability and experience in botanical art. In addition to the 13 required courses, students 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. Please note: To receive credit for any course, attendance is required at the first class and at 80 % of all classes.

SCIENCE AND ART LECTURES Selected lectures at Denver Botanic Gardens can qualify for elective credits. Participation in one lecture gives one elective credit hour; students can receive a maximum of 15 credit hours from these lectures. Café Botanique, organized by Mervi Hjelmroos-Koski, is a lecture series open to Botanical Art and Illustration students, Gardens members, the general public, academia and artists. Pre-registration is recommended but not required.

PORTFOLIO REVIEWUpon completion of all course work, you may apply for portfolio review (held twice a year) by requesting a transcript from the program manager when you request your review.

The complete portfolio will contain five (5) finished botanical plates:1. Graphite pencil2. Colored pencil3. Pen and ink4. Water media5. Artist’s choice: This can be a plate in any of the media taught within the program or a combination of them.

GUEST WORKSHOPS

Flower Portraits in Pastel with Susan FisherPastels aren’t those pale colors associated with blackboard chalk; they are the hands-on medium that connects you directly to your art. In fact, pastels have a long history among artists who appreciate versatility and ease of application. Begin with

quick studies that create a roadmap to a finished piece; do exercises in color selection to increase your personal color vocabulary and learn how to make no-fear choices to a finished painting. Individual attention and instructor demonstrations will boost your confidence and your work. Fee: $210 member, $257 non-member. All students are welcome, with no prerequisites.

From Outlined to Boneless: Painting Peony and Lotus the Chinese Way

Known as “king of flowers” and “flower of wealth and honor,” the peony is the most popular botanical motif in China. As a symbol of purity, the lotus is said to be the Chinese character and painting that not only gives insight into Chinese culture, but can also be a relaxing and meditative practice for people of all ages. This class will explore the abiding rhythms of nature

and human culture in China through the unique characteristics and techniques associated with traditional

Look, Paint and Enjoy! Three-day course led by illustrator Charlotte Knox, known for her meticulous technique, captivating realism and bold forms. Discover the tricks and secrets of her globally acclaimed depictions of fall leaves, fruits and vegetables. Explore contrasting approaches to contemporary composition, using a variety of sources including herbarium species, classic botanical illustrations,

live materials, online images and photo-graphs. Practice techniques developed by Charlotte during more than three decades as a professional illustrator. Create innovative watercolor effects using additional materials such as pastels,

No refunds for registration cancellations after June 20 unless your seat can be filled.

• Fri. – Sun., July 8 – 10, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Instructor: Susan T. Fisher

Susan T. Fisher is the director of the Art Institute at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum where she created the Nature Illustration Certificate Program. She is the former coordina-tor for the Botanical Art and Illustration Program at Denver Botanic Gardens. Susan served on the board of directors and is the past president of the American Society of Botanical Artists. Her illustrations appear in numerous periodicals and books, national exhibits and private collections.

Chinese ink painting of peony and lotus. You will learn a number of Chinese characters that make up auspicious sayings to go with the peony and lotus as well. Fee: $210 member, $257 non-member. All students are welcome, with no prerequisites. No refunds for registration cancellations after September 26 unless your seat can be filled.

• Fri. – Sun., Oct. 14 – 16, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Instructor: Sally Yu Leung, San Francisco, CA

Sally Yu Leung is an independent curator of Chinese decorative arts, collector, practicing calligrapher, and also the cultural ambassador of the Asian Art Museum in San Francisco. She has taught Chinese calligraphy and brush-painting at Pixar University for some years now.

sandpaper, watercolor crayons, sable brushes, paint shapers, gouache and more. Fee: $210 member, $257 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Color Mixing for Artists, Watercolor I. No refunds for registration cancellations after October 17 unless your seat can be filled.

Weekend Workshop• Fri. – Sun., Nov. 4 – 6, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Instructor: Charlotte Knox, NY, NY

Born in London in 1951, Charlotte Knox trained at the Ruskin School of Fine Art and Drawing, Oxford University and St. Martin’s School of Art, London. She has worked since 1974 as a prize-winning illustrator and artist, specializing in water-colors of fruit, vegetables and seafood.

Charlotte Knox

Sally Yu Leung

Susan T. Fisher

INTRODUCTORY COURSES

REQUIRED COURSES

Botany for the Botanical IllustratorWhat 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: $192 member, $245 non-member. All students are welcome, with no prerequisites.

• Mon., Aug. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, 9 a.m. – noon Instructor: Mervi Hjelmroos-Koski

• Wed., Nov. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 6 – 9 p.m. Instructor: Mervi Hjelmroos-Koski

Composition for Botanical IllustrationThe arrangement of line, shape and color in artwork is an art form in itself. The difference between a pleasant picture and amazing artwork is often found in composition. This course begins with a study of recognized masters and contemporary illustrators. Learn how to use compositional elements and principles in your botanical illustration. Exercises to create your own thumbnail compositions develop insight and expertise to enhance all of your future illustrations. Fee: $192 member, $245 non-member. All students are welcome, with no prerequisites.

Introduction to Botanical IllustrationAre 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 straight- forward instruction will open your mind to your own creative abilities. Build drawing skills to enter the Botanical Illustration program with confidence. Fee: $192 member, $243 non-member. All students are welcome, with no prerequisites. Note: If you have had some drawing experience, please go directly to Pencil I.

• Fri., Sept. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 1 – 4 p.m. Instructor: Renee Jorgensen

• Tue., Aug. 16, 23, 30, Sept. 6, 20, 6 – 9 p.m. Instructor: Marjorie Leggitt

• Mon., Oct. 24, 31, Nov., 7, 14, 21, 9 a.m. – noon Instructor: Marjorie Leggitt

Botanical Illustration in Pencil ILearn 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, added techniques help you render accurate perspective, texture and detail. This is the entry course for every program student and a prerequisite for all courses to follow. You’ll emerge from this class with the tools you need to draw anything. Fee: $192 member, $245 non-member. All students are welcome, with no prerequisites.

• Tue., June 21, 28, July 5, 12, 19, 9 a.m. - noon Instructor: Renee Jorgensen

Weekend Workshop• Fri. – Sun., Aug. 5 – 7, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Instructor: Karla Beatty

• Sat., Sept. 3, 10, 17, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Instructor: Renee Jorgensen

Weekend Workshop• Fri. – Sun., Oct. 28 – 30, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Instructor: Marjorie Leggitt

• Tue., Nov. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, 9 a.m. – noon Instructor: Renee Jorgensen

Offsite at Arvada Center Call 720-898-7200 to register or go to www.arvadacenter.org• Sept. 20, 27, Oct. 4, 11, 18, 1:30 – 4:30 p.m. Instructor: Renee Jorgensen

Botanical Illustration in Pencil IISimple 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 and composition. A good drawing is the basis of botanical illustration in any medium. Group instruction and individual attention are tailored to help you complete a botanical plate

REQUIRED COURSES

in this subtle and striking medium. Fee: $192 member, $245 non-member. Prerequisite: Pencil I

• Tue., Sept. 13, 20, 27, Oct. 4, 11, 9 – noon Instructor: Karla Beatty

• Wed., Sept. 14, 21, 28, Oct. 5, 12, 6 – 9 p.m. Instructor: Susan Rubin

• Thur., Oct. 27, Nov. 3, 10, 17, Dec. 1, 1 – 4 p.m. Instructor: Marjorie Leggitt

Perfecting Perspective Do you shy away from complicated plants? Even experienced illustrators sometimes struggle with foreshortening and simplify their subjects to eliminate difficult elements. Work with botanical subjects that demonstrate each aspect of perspective and learn techniques for seeing and depicting perspective accurately. Complete a final piece that shows your new under-standing of perspective principles. The class will work entirely in graphite pencil, but the principles apply to all art media. Gain confidence in your drafting skills and improve all of your drawings from this class forward. Fee: $192 member, $245 non-member. Prerequisite: Pencil I

Weekend Workshop• Fri. – Sun., July 29 – 31, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Instructor: Marjorie Leggitt

• Mon., Sept. 19, 26, Oct. 3, 10, 17, 1 – 4 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 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: $192 member, $245 non-member. Prerequisite: Pencil I

• Tue., Aug. 16, 23, 30, Sept. 6, 13, 1 – 4 p.m. Instructor: Renee Jorgensen

• Thurs., Sept. 22, 29, Oct. 6, 13, 20, 6 – 9 p.m. Instructor: Renee Jorgensen

Botanical Illustration in Pen and Ink IITake your pen and ink skills to a new level of sophistication. Explore the Gardens’ limitless world of color, texture and complex botany to incorporate this information into black and white illustrations. Working with both technical pen and traditional quill, learn advanced techniques to make strokes that mimic the fuzz on a fern, the down in a milk-weed pod or 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 of a plant of your choice. Fee: $192 member, $245 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Pen and Ink I

• Tue., Sept. 20, 27, Oct. 4, 11, 18, 1 – 4 p.m. Instructor: Libby Kyer

• Thurs., Oct. 27, Nov. 3, 10, 17, Dec. 1, 6 – 9 p.m. Instructor: Marjorie Leggitt

Color Layering for Colored PencilColored 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 determine shadow colors for vibrant results. Practice color matching with 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: $192 member, $245 non-member. Prerequisite: Pencil I

Weekend Workshop• Fri. – Sun., July 22 – 24, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Instructor: Susan Rubin

Weekend Workshop• Fri. – Sun., Aug. 19 – 21, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Instructor: Susan Rubin

Weekend Workshop• Fri. – Sun., Nov. 11 – 13, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Instructor: Susan Rubin

Marjorite Leggitt

REQUIRED COURSES

Botanical Illustration in Colored Pencil I 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: $192 member, $245 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I and Color Layering for Colored Pencil

• Wed., July 13, 20, 27, Aug. 3, 10, 9 a.m. - noon Instructor: Susan DiMarchi

• Tue., Oct. 4, 11, 18, 25, Nov. 1, 6 – 9 p.m. Instructor: Susan DiMarchi

Botanical Illustration in Colored Pencil IITake your colored pencil skills to the next level and become proficient in this fun, versatile medium. Work through a step-by-step process to create a preparatory layered draw-ing. Learn techniques to create texture, detail and depth to enhance your subject. Experiment with different surfaces and solvents for blending and shading. Add depth with atmospheric perspective and learn finishing techniques that will make your drawings pop. Individual attention will guide you to create a finished botanical plate. Fee: $192 member, $245 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Color Layering for Colored Pencil and Colored Pencil I

• Tue., July 5, 12, 19, 26, Aug. 2, 6 – 9 p.m. Instructor: Susan Rubin

• Tue., Nov. 8, 15, 22, 29, Dec. 6, 1 – 4 p.m. Instructor: Susan Rubin

Color Mixing for ArtistsThe first step to watercolor painting is mixing colors. Learn a system for combining colors consistently to eliminate frustrating trial and error. 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: $192 member, $245 non-member. All students are welcome, with no prerequisites.

• Mon., July 18, 25, Aug. 1, 8, 15, 1 – 4 p.m. Instructor: Constance Sayas

• Mon., Oct. 24, 31, Nov. 7, 14, 21, 6 – 9 p.m. Instructor: Constance Sayas

Note: Create your own hardbound workbook for this class in Making a Color Mixing Journal, Oct. 1, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Botanical Illustration in Watercolor IBecome 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 to 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: $192 member, $245 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I and Color Mixing for Artists

• Wed., Aug. 17, 24, 31, Sept. 7, 14, 9 a.m. - noon Instructor: Karla Beatty

Botanical Illustration in Watercolor IIWatercolor basics got you started - now develop your confidence work toward completing a finished plate from a live specimen in this most traditional of botanical media. 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. Fee: $192 member, $245 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Color Mixing for Artists and Watercolor I

• Wed., Nov. 9, 16, 23, 30, Dec. 7, 9 a.m. – noon Instructor: Karla Beatty

ELECTIVE COURSES

Art Materials for the Botanical IllustratorTake the mystery out of materials. There are 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: $40 member, $49 non-member. All students are welcome, with no prerequisites.

• Sat., Aug. 13, 9 a.m. - noon Instructor: Renee Jorgensen

Botany Spotlight: LichensMost lichens grow very, very slowly; often less than 0.5 millimeter per year, and some lichens are thought to be among the oldest living things on Earth: they may live to over 1000 years, depending on the age of the surface. We eat them, and use them as perfumes and dyes. We also use them for bioremediation and assess the impact of air pollution with them. Under the microscope these remarkable organisms transform into abstract masterpieces of form, color and texture. Study these fascinating and complex organisms under magnification. In this one-day lab class use a microscope to observe details closely and sketch them in pencil. When you understand more, you’ll draw better. Fee: $65 member, $81 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I

• Tue., Aug. 2, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Instructor: Mervi Hjelmroos-Koski

Adobe Illustrator ILeave your paintbrush at home, and bring your computer to learn the basics of Adobe Illustrator—a program necessary to produce vector artwork. Exercises emphasize the use of Bezier curves to create shapes using the mouse. 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 have fun exploring a world of artistic possibilities. You will need a laptop computer with current Adobe Illustrator (CS 4 or CS5) software installed (a 30-day trial version is available for free). Fee: $192 member, $245 non-member. All students are welcome, with no prerequisites.

Weekend Workshop• Fri. – Sun., Nov. 18 – 20, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Instructor: Marjorie Leggitt

BOOKBINDING

Bookbinding Workshop – Make Three Different Artistic Boxes

Learn to make a variety of sturdy and beautiful boxes, perfect for botanical note cards, stationary, pens and pencils or small precious objects. We will create a clamshell box, a hinged lid box and a box with a separate lid. They will be

constructed of bookbinding board, covered with durable book cloth and lined with a variety of beautiful papers. Finally, add ribbon ties and button closures to the boxes. Fee: $215 member, $268 non-member (the fee includes a supply kit for making all three boxes). All students are welcome, with no prerequisites.

Weekend Workshop• Fri. – Sun., Oct. 21 – 23, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Instructor: Cameron Garland

Color Mixing JournalMake it beautiful and make it useful! Learn the craft of Coptic binding start-to-finish as you make your own journal for Color Mixing in Watercolor or for mixing colors in the field. Create a custom cover with your own decorative papers. Beginning with specially

printed cardstock, learn to assemble paper signatures, align the spine and stitch your beautifully bound journal. In just one day, create a lasting color journal for color mixing. Once you know the binding techniques, you’ll make numerous books for many uses. Fee: $100 member, $125 non-member. The fee includes paper (Fabriano Artistico, 90-lb hot press watercolor paper and color mixing templates in cardstock), archival glue, Davey board for one journal and needles for sewing. All students are welcome, with no prerequisites.

• Sat., Oct. 1, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Instructor: Annie Reiser

Cameron Garland

Annie Reiser

ELECTIVE COURSES

Botanical Artist’s Visual JournalCreate a bound journal and fill it with your own drawings! Begin with step-by-step instruction as you learn how to assemble drawing paper and a beautiful cover with a Coptic single-needle binding. Once your journal is in hand, move out to the gardens and learn the practice of spontaneous drawing and contemplative writing. Experiment with graphite, ink and watercolor pencil to capture visual inspirations at a moment’s notice, and make written notes in an appealing lettering style. Whether you are noting the progress of your own garden or exploring new places, the skills to make your own journals and draw on the spot may just inspire you leave your camera at home! Fee: $225 member, $275 non-member. The fee includes paper (Fabriano Artistico, 90-lb hot press watercolor paper), archival glue, Davey board for one journal and needles for sewing. Recommended Prerequisites: Pencil I, Color Layering for Colored Pencil, Colored Pencil I and Watercolor Pencil I

Weekend Workshop• Fri. – Sun., July 15 – 17, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Instructor: Renee Jorgensen

JOURNALING

The Art of the Nature Journal at Caribou Ranch and Mud Lake Open Space

Explore the artistic, scientific and reflective pursuit of keeping a nature journal in the field. Delight in the environment as you observe and record its details. Observing deeply, sketching and noting the features of plants, flowers, birds, animals, sky and land formations will reveal to you insights that you might never discover in the rush of daily life

or studio practice. Learn basic techniques in graphite and colored pencil, pen and ink, wash and watercolor. Enjoy classroom and outdoor instruction in attuned observation, writing in reverie, field sketching, color and creating “encounter maps.” Whether you are new to the nature journal or an advanced naturalist/artist, you will deepen in your skills and develop an artful daily practice for your life through all of the seasons. Fee: $220 member, $270 non-member. All students are welcome, with no prerequisites.

Weekend Workshop• Fri. – Sun., Aug. 5 – 7, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Instructor: Maria Hodkins

The Wild Bear Nature Center and Caribou Ranch Open Space are located between Nederland, CO and the Indian Peaks Wilderness area. Caribou Ranch offers a variety of landscapes to explore, including wetlands, meadows, streams and forests. It has a rich natural history of geology, glaciations, mixed conifer woodlands and wildlife, and a diverse cultural history of mining, railroads, horse breeding, music production. It is part of the Boulder County Parks and Open Space.

DRAWING TECHNIQUES

The Value of Value in Color PaintingValues are the variations in tone that help to create the illusion of spatial form and depth. Learn to see values in color and apply a range of values to clarify depth and overlap. Working with watercolor, a series of exercises will help you learn to see the difference between hue and value, select and mix effective shadow colors, and develop strategies to create optical illusions created by color and value relationships. Complete a finished painting to show all of your new skills. Fee: $192 member, $245 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Color Mixing for Artists, Watercolor I

• Wed., Aug. 3, 10, 17, 24, Sept. 7, 6 – 9 p.m. Instructor: Constance Sayas

Focus on StyleIt’s all about YOU! You are a program graduate or almost there. You’ve learned techniques in multiple media and created numerous works according to direction. Now it’s time to define your own style and start a body of work that best represents your own point of view. Start with tools for self-assessment and an

overview of the possibilities. See how other botanical artists have found clarity, then make small decisions that add up to a personal statement. Start a new piece in any medium that will showcase your strengths and style. Whether you gravitate toward botanical tradition or the cutting edge, you’ll emerge with a better idea of your unique artistic direction. Fee: $192 member, $245 non-member. Prerequisites: All required classes and at least 50 elective hours.

• Thurs., Aug. 11, 18, 25, Sept. 1, 8, 1 – 4 p.m. Instructor: Susan Rubin

Maria Hodkins

Susan Rubin

ELECTIVE COURSES

Expressive Ink on MylarStep away from tradition to try new techniques! Trade your technical pen for a quill and brush and learn to express ink lines in a relaxed and painterly fashion. Begin with a look at how other artists have used ink expressively. Demonstration and practice with the new tools and colored inks prepares you to start your own drawing. Choose a botanical subject and experiment with techniques for successfully depicting

line, form and texture. Make a mistake? No problem! You can erase ink from Mylar and try again. Complete a botanical study and enjoy a fresh, fun way to approach this time-honored medium.Fee: $192 member, $245 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Pen and Ink I, Pen and Ink II

• Wed., Nov. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 1 – 4 p.m. Instructor: Susan DiMarchi

Texture on Mylar with Colored PencilBeauty is in the details. Fuzzy, thorny, rough, smooth; it’s all form on a small scale. Learn to see texture in a new way that allows you to create realistic textures using a variety of colored pencil techniques specific to Mylar film, including pencil application and layering techniques; how to make the back of the surface enhance the front and how to erase colored pencil from Mylar.

Through guided exercise and practice, assemble a collection of texture technique studies that you can reference for all future work. Fee: $192 member, $245 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Color Layering for Colored Pencil, Colored Pencil I

• Tue., Nov. 8, 15, 22, 29, Dec. 6, 6 – 9 p.m. Instructor: Susan Rubin

Ravishing Reds in WatercolorMore orange in the sunlight; violet in the shadows; pink at the edge? Capturing the “right” red is an interesting challenge for the illustrator. Build on your watercolor skills as you learn to mix the red hues you need and effectively apply color to create value and form. Viewing examples of artworks representing successful use of red tones, in-

structor demonstrations, and practical exercises with a variety of red botanical material will prepare you to complete a finished plate from a red-blossomed specimen. Fee: $192 member, $245 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Color Mixing for Artists, Watercolor I

• Mon., Oct. 24, 31, Nov. 7, 14, 21, 1 – 4 p.m. Instructor: Constance Sayas

GRAPHITE

Feathers in Graphite“It is not only fine feathers that make fine birds.” (Aesop) Fine feathers make fine illustrations as well! Graphite pencil is the perfect medium to focus on the skills needed to depict soft textures, unique patterns and fine details found in feathers. Start with careful observation of individual feathers from a variety of birds. Learn how feathers work together on a bird’s wing to form a coat. With an emphasis on drafting skills, learn to draw this appealing subject in a realistic style. Fee: $192 member, $245 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I

• Thurs., Sept. 15, 22, 29, Oct. 6, 13, 1 – 4 p.m. Instructor: Karla Beatty

PEN & INK, CALLIGRAPHY AND PUBLISHING

Elegant Hand Lettering ILearn copperplate or round hand lettering, the traditional style for labeling early botanical plates. Popular in England in the 17th and 18th centuries, this elegant lettering complements botanicals beautifully. Start with an introduction to the oblique pen and flexible quill nibs. Practice basic pen strokes and learn to form each letter in this classic style. Learn label placement and lettering size to complete your plates with a special flourish. Fee: $192 member, $245 non-member. All students are welcome, with no prerequisites.

• Thur., June 30, July 7, 14, 21, Aug. 4, 1 – 4 p.m. Instructor: Renee Jorgensen

Elegant Hand Lettering II: Beautiful BrushstrokesYour paintbrush has a new task! From the Romans to the Romantics, artists have wielded the brush to add the final flourish to artwork and documents alike. Whether working in a formal or an informal script, the brush is a natural for creating elegant letterforms. Learn how to maneuver the lively, springy character of the brush to

Susan DiMarchi

Susan Rubin

Constance Sayas

ELECTIVE COURSES

bring life to letterforms and decorative strokes. Practice arm and wrist movements that will bring your calligraphy to a new level of precise control. Explore media other than black ink to add the final, personal touch to every artwork. Fee: $192 member, $245 non-member. Prerequisites: Elegant Hand lettering I.

• Fri., Sept. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 9 a.m. – Noon Instructor: Renee Jorgensen

Pen and Ink III: Arizona Legumes IIAdvance your pen and ink skills to a professional level and help to illustrate “Legumes of Arizona: An Illustrated Flora.” The book will be a synoptic floristic account of the family Fabaceae in Arizona. The flora will include all native, naturalized and cultivated taxa. Learn to work with herbarium specimens as well as dissection and microscopes of selected species. Working within publisher

guidelines, learn the necessary steps to execute and prepare pen and ink illustrations for scientific publications. Quality is key here; only the most expert works will be selected for publication. Enjoy this rare opportunity to experience working as a botanical illustrator in the world of publication. Fee: $192 member, $245 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Pen and Ink I, Pen and Ink II

• Mon., Sept. 19, 26, Oct. 3, 10, 17, 9 a.m. – Noon Instructor: Marjorie Leggitt

COLORED PENCIL

Lyrical Flowers in Colored Pencil on Mylar“Where Have All the Flowers Gone?” Into song lyrics and poetry! Find your favorite flowery lyrics and create a composition to visually interpret the words. Learn skills specific to working on Mylar film, including pencil application and layering techniques, how to make the back of the surface enhance the front, and how to 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 that sings! Fee: $192 member, $245 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Color Layering for Colored Pencil, Colored Pencil I, Colored Pencil II

• Mon., July 5, 12, 19, 26, Aug. 2, 1 – 4 p.m. Instructor: Susan Rubin

Leafy Greens in Colored Pencil Focus on foliage! The greens of summer are just as beautiful as the blooms. Start with a study of nuanced shades of green, and then add techniques and tricks for rendering margins, surface texture and venation. Tackle the tough ones, including variegated, highly textured and translucent leaves. Create a series of studies that show your understanding of leaves and greens. Your new skills for depicting leaf form and color will improve your future illustrations. Fee: $192 member, $245 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Color Layering for Col-ored Pencil, Colored Pencil I

• Thurs., July 7, 14, 21, 28, Aug. 11, 9 a.m. – Noon Instructor: Susan Rubin

Native EarthCelebrate Native Roots | Modern Form and the bounty of indigenous plants at the Gardens. Begin with a tour by a Gardens expert and learn about the Houser sculptures as well as the Native American triad of squash, beans and corn. Dubbed the “three sisters” because they were planted interdependently, these crops play a crucial role in

nutrition, lore and magic. Study composition techniques to combine varied plants with elements of the Houser sculptures, using under-painting to anchor form. Refine your line to capture the delicate tendrils of beans, the shaggy elegance of cornhusks and the patterned squash. Fee: $192 member, $245 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Color Layering for Colored Pencil, Colored Pencil I

• Fri., Aug. 12, 19, 26, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Instructor: Libby Kyer

Wicked PlantsJust in time for Halloween! They seem so innocent, but a glance at Amy Stewart’s “Wicked Plants: The Weed That Killed Lincoln’s Mother and other Botanical Atrocities” will convince you that sweet peas and azaleas have a dark side. In fact, the ordinary garden is full of dangerous, destructive and even deadly plants! Explore the Gardens with a plant expert to learn about plants with

nefarious pasts and horrible habits. Choose your favorite and

Marjorie Leggitt

Libby Kyer

Susan Rubin

ELECTIVE COURSES

work with trompe l’oeil techniques in colored pencil to create a “Jekyll and Hyde” portrait that shows both sides of your plant’s true nature. Fee: $192 member, $245 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Color Layering for Colored Pencil, Colored Pencil I

• Wed., Sept. 14, 21, 28, Oct. 5, 12, 1 – 4 p.m. Instructor: Susan Rubin

Art Nouveau: Botanical Tile Designs

The Art Nouveau movement was the expression of beauty in the everyday object. Characterized by curvaceous lines and a focus on nature, artists like Alphonse Mucha and Charles Rennie Macintosh created fervor for stylized flowers. Learn about the principals of Art Nouveau design and how to make it your own. Working with colored pencils, create a design that will span a panel of tiles that might decorate a backsplash, a fireplace or a trivet. Don’t stop there! Tile-printing professionals will make your finished work into beautiful, functional tiles. Fee: $192 member, $245 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Color Layering for Colored Pencil, Colored Pencil I, Colored Pencil II

• Mon., Sept. 12, 19, 26, Oct. 3, 10, 6 – 9 p.m. Instructor: Susan Rubin

Conifers in Colored PencilPining for a challenge? The flowers have faded, but Colorado’s conifers are always at the ready. These intricate structures pack plenty of complicated details in their needles, whorls, cones, branches and bark. An emphasis on planning and guided composition will unravel the complexities and help you to show overlapping perspective. Develop a strategy for mixing the nuanced color shadings. Effective under-

painting will establish your road map to an informative, accurate and inspiring plant portrait in colored pencil.

Bonus: Once you master the conifers, you can draw anything! Fee: $192 member, $245 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Color Layering for Colored Pencil, Colored Pencil I

Weekend Workshop• Fri. – Sun., Oct. 21-23, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Instructor: Libby Kyer

MIXED MEDIA – ILLUMINATION

Brilliant Butterflies “Butterflies are self propelled flowers.” (R.H. Heinlein) The beauty of the butterfly extends to its relationship with the botanical realm. Learn about the life cycle of the butterfly as well as its habitats, feeding habits and anatomy.

Demonstrations show you how to accurately draw a butterfly and apply iridescence to its colorful wings. Place the butterfly in context and use modern mixed media including watercolor, colored pencil watercolor pencil, and pen and ink to design and complete a traditional illumination of a beautiful butterfly. Fee: $192 member, $245 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Pen and Ink I, Color Layering for Colored Pencil, Colored Pencil I or Watercolor Pencil I

• Thurs., June 30, July 7, 14, 21, Aug. 4, 6 – 9 p.m. Instructor: Renee Jorgensen

Indigenous Plants and American Indian Cuisine Acorns, onions, ramps and yucca all contribute to the vast array of wild and cultivated indigenous plants that anchor Native American ethnic cuisine. A talk by a Gardens expert will start your investigation into this delicious subject. Research a recipe and its history, plant-based ingredients, cooking methods and related tools. Focus on composition as you bring all of the elements together to create a compelling work that transcends traditional botanical illustration. Work in the color medium of your choice to depict your delectable botanical “plate” that tells the whole story. Fee: $192 member, $245 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Color layering for Colored Pencil and Colored Pencil I or Color Mixing for Artists and Watercolor I

• Thurs., Aug. 11, 18, 25, Sept. 1, 8, 6 – 9 p.m. Instructor: Marjorie Leggitt

“Lily & Berry” Set of three molded tiles. A reproduction of the c1910 original design. Available from http://www.HistoricStyle.com

Libby Kyer

Renee Jorgensen

ELECTIVE COURSES

Drawing on Tradition: Marie Angel’s Illuminated Miniatures

Renowned miniaturist Marie Angel created hundreds of luminous, precise, fanciful paintings in an art and teaching career that spanned most of a century until her death in 2010. She brought a modern eye to a medieval craft and melded the two with great success. Learn about Marie Angel’s remarkable life and techniques in both lettering and painting. Acquire the design skills to plan an illuminated letter that illustrates

a plant and related natural subjects. Sound like a big job? You’ll bring it down to size in a final miniature plate in pen and ink, gouache and watercolor that incorporates all your new skills. Fee: $192 member, $245 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Color Mixing for Artists and Watercolor I or Gouache

• Wed., Oct. 19, 26, Nov. 2, 0 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Instructor: Renee Jorgensen

WATERCOLOR PENCIL

Watercolor Pencils IIt’s dry, it’s wet, it’s mixed media in a single pencil! Discover the versatility of watercolor pencils. Start with color studies to explore the qualities of watercolor pencils as they translate into watercolor. Experiment with graphite pencil and ink as embellishments, as you develop and work on sketches from your journal, then put your new skills to use to create a finished botanical plate in this fresh and fluid medium. Fee: $192 member, $245 nonmember. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Color layering for Colored Pencil, Color Mixing for Artists

• Thurs., Oct. 27, Nov. 3, 10, 17, Dec. 1, 9 a.m. - noon Instructor: Renee Jorgensen

WATER MEDIA

Rocky Mountain WildflowersTake a walk on the wild side! It’s Colorado wildflower season and blooms abound close to home. Both delicate and hardy, these delightful varieties present challenges in composition, spatial relationship and perspective. Learn from other artists by studying fine art and field guides, both current and historical. Focus on planning your painting and watercolor techniques including loose wet-on-wet and controlled dry brush to capture every detail. Work

from a live specimen to create a lovely, lasting portrait of a Rocky Mountain wildflower. Fee: $192 member, $245 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Color Mixing for Artists, Watercolor I

• Wed., July 6, 13, 20, 27, Aug. 3, 1 – 4 p.m. Instructor: Constance Sayas

Sunflowers in WatercolorGirasole, Tournesol, Girasol, Solros. In any language, the sunflower is an iconic image in botanical art. Break away from tiny, delicate plants and experiment with composition of the big and bold. Study the masters to see how other artists have portrayed sunflowers. Examine the structure to understand sunflower anatomy. Learn techniques to accurately depict ellipses in perspective and diagram seed patterns in the Fibonacci sequence. Practice mixing varied yellow hues. From wet-on-wet for the broad petals to dry brush detail for the fuzzy sepals, you’ll explore a variety of watercolor techniques and create a finished plate that expresses your bold side and shows off a new set of skills. Fee: $192 member, $245 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Color Mixing for Artists, Watercolor I

• Mon., July 25, Aug. 1, 8, 15, 22, 6 – 9 p.m. Instructor: Constance Sayas

Colorado Native GrassesNative grasslands once covered 40% of this continent, though less than one percent remains today. Colorado has lost approximately 35% of its central short grass prairie. Native grasses are integral to

our ecosystem and provide a wide range of color, texture and fascinating seed heads. This distinctive plant structure presents a challenge to illustrators. Start with a visit to the herbarium and a talk by a Gardens expert to expand your understanding of how grasses grow. Learn and practice pure dry brush techniques including feathering and blending. Mix the subtle greens, browns

Marie Angel

Constance Sayas Constance Sayas

Karla Beatty

ELECTIVE COURSES

REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Five Easy Ways to Enroll

1. By Telephone: 720-865-35802. By Fax: 720-865-3685 (24 HOURS)3. In Person: Visit the Education Office at the Gardens,

1007 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

Visit Botanical Illustration’s blog at www.botanicalillustration.blogspot.com

Refund and Cancellation Policy:Cancellations more than one week prior to a class are subject to a 15% cancellation fee. Cancellations with less than one week notice are non-refundable.

After Course has Commenced:Instructors have no authority to grant or promise refunds or credits. In the event of a 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 program manager two weeks before the course starts. If 20 – 40 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.

These policies apply to all registrations in the Botanical Art and Illustration Program. Selected courses have additional cancellation and refund requirements printed with the course description. Denver Botanic Gardens regrets that it cannot make exceptions.

Certificate credit requirements for individual courses:Attendance is required at the first class for all courses. In order to receive credit, 80 % of a course must be attended (at least 12 hours of a 15-hour course).

and neutrals of live and dried grasses. Combine your new knowl-edge and skills to complete a portrait of an ethereal Colorado native. Fee: $192 member, $245 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Color Mixing for Artists, Watercolor I

• Tue., Aug. 9, 16, 23, 30, Sept. 6, 9 a.m. – noon Instructor: Karla Beatty

The Story of the AppleA fresh look at the familiar apple! Delve into the amazing history of cultivated apples and the vast variety that never sees the grocery store. With an emphasis on focused planning and creative composition incorporating the leaves, blossoms and twigs as well as the fruit, take the story to a new level and find beauty in the ordinary. From washes to brushed texture to dry brush details, work on painting techniques that enhance light on rounded form, portray textures and match the unique colors of apple varieties. Create a finished plate in the tradition of illustrated apples. Fee: $192 member, $245 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Color Mixing for Artists, Watercolor I

• Wed., Aug. 10, 17, 24, 31, Sept. 7, 1 – 4 p.m. Instructor: Karla Beatty

Eggs and Nests in WatercolorOur feathered friends depend on plants to build their nests. Learn about species-specific birds’ nest materials and construction from a Denver Museum of Nature and Science expert. Work from specimens

provided by the Museum as you learn to create a compelling composition and tackle the challenges of a complex subject. Watercolor wash and dry brush techniques will help to portray the rough nest and the smooth, rounded eggs with lovely colors and patterns. Complete a natural science illustration with timeless appeal. Fee: $192 member, $245 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Color Mixing for Artists, Watercolor I

• Thurs., Sept. 15, 22, 29, Oct. 6, 13, 9 a.m. - noon Instructor: Karla Beatty

Drawing on Tradition: Album Vilmorin & the Vegetable GardenIn the mid-19th Century, the Parisian firm of Vilmorin-Andrieux & Cie dominated the field of kitchen garden vegetable seeds, and produced exquisite seed catalogs illustrated by prominent botanical artists of the day. Their distinctive compositions elevated the ordinary vegetable and set a standard for other illustrators. Study the historical, bold Vilmorin style and create your own water-color plate in keeping with the tradition. Start with composition and learn to edit for best effect. Learn strategies for combining watercolor techniques including wet-on wet, washes and dry brush to effectively convey form, color and detail. Your finished work will “advertise” your refined skills. Fee: $192 member, $245 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Color Mixing for Artists, Watercolor I, Watercolor II

• Wed., Sept. 21, 28, Oct. 5, 12, 19, 9 a.m. - noon Instructor: Constance Sayas

CONTINUING EDUCATION REGISTRATION

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10th & York Street www.botanicgardens.org