Course goals and objectives

On completion of this course, you should be able to:

1. Develop a plan to create botanical artwork, including how to:

  • Select a subject, identify reference materials, and design an appealing composition.
  • Obtain appropriate paint, brushes, paper, and other supplies.
  • Trace reference materials and transfer major artistic lines to a paper painting surface.
  • Prepare the surface and workstation to paint.

2. Apply basic artistic principles to botanical subjects, including how to:

  • Identify light and shadow.
  • Illustrate tone.
  • Distinguish between cool and warm colors.

3. Interpret paint labels and practice safety measures, including how to:

  • Recognize the meaning of various symbols.
  • Identify paint characteristics that affect the longevity of color vibrancy.
  • Recognize toxic paint ingredients and avoid ingestion.
  • Implement safe disposal practices for paint water and leftover paints to keep them away from water and food sources.

4. Use various painting techniques and helpful tips to:

  • Recognize and mix accurate colors.
  • Create desired textures and effects.
  • Preserve and blend white paper as highlights.
  • Correct and integrate mistakes into paintings.

5. Complete paintings at various skill levels, including learning to:

  • Paint a simple botanical subject.
  • Paint a moderately complex botanical subject.

6. Use archival-quality framing supplies to protect finished artwork, including how to:

  • Select archival-quality materials.
  • Calculate the desired mat size and frame size.
  • Implement techniques to reduce trapping dust and other particles behind the glass.