Botanical Painting Course at Eden Project

Eden Project is one of my favourite places to visit, not only for the educational aspect (I am all for recycling and sustainability) but also for the never-ending source of inspiration. When I learned about the botanical painting course they were going to run, I had to book my place.

Anyone who is familiar with my paintings knows that accuracy and staying true to the subject are not my artistic pursuits. At the same time, I have always admired botanical art and artists for their skill and accuracy of documenting various plants and flower species. With this course, I was hoping to find out more about how they do it and I wasn't disappointed. Not only did I learn accurate drawing techniques and graphite shading, but I had my first go at watercolour painting.

Tutor: Laura Silburn, a fellow of the Eden Project Florilegium Society who teaches botanical painting and drawing courses at the Eden Project.

Setting: Mediterranean biome surrounded by autumn vegetables, citrus fruit trees, and a lovely atmosphere.

Did I like it? Yes. Will I use the newly learned techniques in my art? Yes. Will I have another go at watercolors? Yes. And now, here is a selection of photos capturing the learning process.

Freehand drawing

Day 1 - drawing and painting exercises

Choosing my subject - green aubergines

Drawing stages

Drawing and shading 

Step by step painting

The finished painting

In case you are wondering why it isn't hung the right way up, it is because I bought a landscape frame instead of a portrait one. I was about to go back and change it, but then I thought why would I? I make mistakes like this all the time and I am also known for liking imperfections so 'hung the other way around' it is. For now.