About the event

A unique opportunity to study botanical illustration within Carlton Marshes nature reserve with experienced botanical artist and illustrator, Ruth Wharrier.  Aimed at people who have some drawing experience (not necessarily botanical), who want to begin on a botanical art journey, this course is the entry level for people wanting to learn botanical drawing and painting. It will allow anyone to progress towards L3 and L4. To find out more about the School of Botanical Art please see here. 

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  

This six day course takes place over four months, September-December 2026:  

• September 14th and 28th
• October 12th
• November 9th, 23rd
• December 7th (review of work and hand in date)

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. 

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.