About the event

 A unique opportunity to study botanical illustration within Carlton Marshes nature reserve with experienced botanical artist and illustrator, Ruth Wharrier.  

This course will enable you to create your own naturalist’s sketchbook and have the confidence to go out and draw! The focus will be on observational sketching techniques that can be used outside whilst walking and also on detailed drawing techniques that can be used back at home.  

The course comprises six modules  

Introduction to Botanical Drawing: 

• Creating Tone and Form  

• Observational Drawing  

Investigating Structure in Botanical Drawing  

• Key Shapes Part 1 

• Key Shapes Part 2  

Introducing Colour in Botanical Drawing  

• Graphite/Watercolour  

• Pen & Ink/Watercolour  

Based at Carlton Marshes, the course will allow participants the opportunity to observe and record the changing face of Spring within this stunning reserve. The centre at Carlton Mashes offers an inspiring setting with enviable views out across the marshes and reed beds.  

Ruth studied Botanical Illustration at The Chelsea Physic Garden, London. She exhibits widely and examples of her natural history illustrations can be seen on the tourist information boards on Pakefield Cliff, Suffolk. Ruth paints in watercolour on paper, vellum and wood. She also creates etchings and works in pen and ink. Ruth is regularly commissioned to decorate harpsichords, for international clients, with flora and fauna using historical painting techniques. 

This five day course over three months:  
16 & 30 September 2024
14 October 2024 
4 & 18 November 2024 

Click on the link to see examples of Ruth's exquisite work: www.ruthwharrier.com 

Please bring with you: A range of drawing pencils, sharpener, rubber, drawing pens e.g. Uni pin 0.05, 0.2, 0.5 An A4 sketchbook with smooth cartridge paper suitable for line and wash. tracing paper,  Artist quality watercolour, hot press watercolour paper (available from the tutor if required). A camera and notepad if you wish. 

Teas and coffees will be served on arrival and throughout the day.  

Lunch is available to purchase from the cafe, the current menu can be found here. Alternatively you can bring a packed lunch. 

Please note our courses are non-refundable and non-transferable and we run all our courses based on a minimum number of participants. Please read our full Terms & Conditions  prior to booking.