Botanical Illustration and the Field Sketchbook (In Person)

Course Description

Develop an illustrative sketchbook practice based in observation and discovery, utilizing the sketchbook as a visual journal through which to investigate and explore botanicals and the natural world. Work from a direct study of plant life at the University of Minnesota College of Biological Sciences Conservatory and establish an approach to field studies grounded in curiosity and research. Become acquainted with the basics of plant biology in collaboration with the scientists at the University of Minnesota while exploring the aesthetic nature of botanicals.

Get introduced to a variety of material approaches, such as graphite, pen, color pencil, and watercolor; materials which allow for ease of observation and documentation on the go, in preparation for a continued exploration of nature through field studies both in and beyond this course. Furthermore, explore the history and practice of botanical illustrations, and develop and refine observational drawing skills through close examination of a variety of plant specimens. / Facilities fee of $46 is included in course tuition.

Open to students ages 16 and above. Review complete policies, including class cancellation policies, before completing your registration.

Course meeting details

This course meets on site at the University of Minnesota's College of Biological Sciences Conservatory, 1538 Gortner Avenue, Saint Paul, MN 55108.

Prerequisites

Previous drawing experience helpful, but not required.

Required materials

Supplies for the first class

• Drawing sketchbook with either Watercolor or Mixed Media Paper; between 5”x8”- 9”x12”
• Drawing pencils (2H, HB, 2B), other pencils are optional
• Eraser
• Basic watercolor set
• paint brushes
• water container
• optional: water reservoir brush

Additional supplies will be discussed during the first class meeting. Students are expected to spend up to $30-50 on supplies in addition to tuition.

Recommended Textbooks

• A Life in Hand: Creating the Illuminated Journal, By Hannah Hinchman (ISBN-10. 087905882X)
• Explorers’ Sketchbooks: The Art of Discovery & Adventure, By Kari Herbert and Huw Lewis- Jones (ISBN: 9781452158273)
• The Sea Journal: Seafarer’s Sketchbooks, By Don Walsh and Huw Lewis-Jones (ISBN 10: 1452181152)
• A Trail Through Leaves: The Journal as a Path to Place, By Hannah Hinchman (ISBN-10. 0393318850)
• Remarkable Diaries: The World’s Greatest Diaries, Journals, Notebooks, and Letters, By Kate Williams (ISBN-13: 9780744020434)
• Explorers’ Botanical Notebook: In the Footsteps of Theophrastus, Marco Polo, Linnaeus, Flinders, Drawing, Speke and Hooker, By Florence Thinard (ISBN 10: 177085763X )
• Botany for the Artist, by Sarah Simblet (ISBN: 9781465494283)

Class resources

This class uses Canvas, MCAD’s learning management system. Please see the link for more information.

Class savings

Register on or before August 11 and save $25.
Register for more than one class at a time and receive $25 off each additional class (same-day registrations only).
Additional savings. Are you eligible?

Questions

Contact MCAD Continuing Education at continuing_education@mcad.edu or call 612.874.3765.