Learn how to create a botanical painting, taking things slowly, step-by-step, learning through a series of demonstrations and explanations at each stage. The aim is for you to produce a finished botanical painting.

You will begin by observing the subject and making a precise and accurate line drawing showing all the main features of the subject. This will be the basis of the watercolour painting.

You will then learn about colour mixing and how to accurately match the colours you can see, including how colours are affected by light and shadow.

You will begin to apply the paint by building up layers slowly and in a way that allows you to have control. You will continue to build the layers until you have a painting that looks three-dimensional, with a good range of tones from light to dark.

You will then add the final details - markings, blemishes, etc., that add the final touch of realism to the portrait of your subject.

The subject will probably be a blueberry, and you will learn to paint several of these in an enlarged format.

Included

On this course the College will supply most of the materials, including paint, paper and brushes. Your tutor will provide the subject for you to paint.

What students need to bring

2H pencil with a sharp point or a mechanical pencil with 2H lead and an eraser

Additional information

Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio, this includes stout covered footwear (no sandals or open toes).

Daily Timetable

Course teaching: 11am–5.15pm
Students arrive: 10.30am-11am (coffee optional)  
Morning teaching: 11am-1pm
Lunch break: 1pm-2pm (lunch is not included)
Afternoon teaching: 2pm-5.15pm (15 minute break, 3.30pm–3.45pm)
Teaching finishes: 5.15pm  
 

Short courses are open to anyone aged 18 and over. The course fee covers tuition and materials where stated. You will need to bring all other items listed under the ‘Materials to bring’ section.

Refreshments

Coffee and tea are included in the course fee, but you will need to bring lunch with you to eat in the refreshments room. There are also plenty of other local venues to purchase food.

Access

If you have any specific access needs, we will need to know about your access requirements in advance. Please tell us about your needs in confidence by emailing: [email protected] This venue has steps to the front reception, with limited access via a side gate to the ground floor. There is a small lift to higher floors or stairs.

Safety

Short course students are required to sign a safety compliance form as part of West Dean Health and Safety regulations.

Refunds and cancellations

Please refer to our terms & conditions below.

Disclaimer

The information given is accurate at the time of publication. However, West Dean College reserves the right to cancel or amend courses if circumstances require.

Terms & Conditions