Botanical Illustration: a Blaze of Autumn Colour

The Course

This is a wonderful opportunity to explore and study nature’s autumn colours at the Museum. Discover the beautiful patterns and textures of a variety of foliage, fruits, berries, seed pods, hips and haws on this fascinating one-day course. Enjoy creating realistic botanical illustrations by drawing and painting with precision and accuracy. This course is suitable for all abilities and allows you the opportunity to work at your own pace with plenty of help and guidance from your tutor.

The Tutor

Leigh Ann Gale is a professional botanical artist and diploma graduate of the English Gardening School, Chelsea Physic Garden. She is an RHS medalist, Fellow of the Hampton Court Palace Florilegium Society, and member of the American Society of Botanical Artists. She also contributes to the Nymans Gardens Florilegium Society and the Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens Florilegium in Sussex, and the Sydney Florilegium Society, Australia. Her work is included in the Royal Archives and features in the permanent collection of the Hunt Institute for Botanical Documentation, Pittsburgh, USA, plus many private collections in the UK and abroad. She has two written two books published by The Crowood Press: ‘Botanical Illustration – the complete guide’ (2018) and ‘Colour for Botanical Artists and Illustrators’ (2021). Leigh Ann teaches botanical illustration in Sussex, Surrey and South London, and undertakes commissioned work.

Participant Information

The day is limited to a maximum of 10 participants.

Materials to bring:

• Watercolours and/or coloured pencils (including water-soluble if you wish)
• Graphite pencils 2H, H, HB
• Rags
• Putty rubber or good quality eraser
• Hot pressed watercolour paper 300g/m2 (140lb) (this can also be purchased from the tutor for a small amount, usually £1-£2 depending on size)
• Tracing paper
• Scissors, magic tape or low-grade adhesive tape (useful but not essential)
• Sable watercolour brushes with good points e.g. size 0 and size 3
• Cartridge paper for drawing

It is advisable to wear layers.

Fee & Refreshments

£70 per person, to include tuition, teas and coffees. Please let the Museum know in advance if you have any special dietary requirements. The Museum cafe will be open or you may wish to bring a packed lunch.