SUMMER/FALL 2010

BOTANICAL ART & ILLUSTRATION

Botanical Illustration is the place where

art and science unite with beautiful results. Certificate Program
 2010 SUMMER-FALL CATALOG
CERTIFICATE IN BOTANICAL ART AND ILLUSTRATION
Botanical art and illustration is the well-established tradition of portraying plants for scientific purposes, recording vanishing
species for historical recollection or rendering the beauty and inspiration we experience in the flora of the world around us.

Denver Botanic Gardens’ Certificate in Botanical Art and Illustration program is designed to teach a comprehensive series of
classes in botanical illustration, offering participants the drawing and painting skills required to render accurate and useful
depictions of the plant world with a focus on detail. This program is for the dedicated illustrator, as well as the devoted ama-
teur. It culminates in a certificate for some students and offers an ongoing program of botanical classes for others.

Introductory Courses Elective Courses

Students wishing to learn more about botanical illustration
or brush up on their skills before beginning the certificate
sequence can take Introduction to Botanical Illustration that
is not part of the certificate requirements.
Required Courses
The following 13 courses are required if you wish to receive a
Certificate in Botanical Art and Illustration. The recommended
sequence of courses is listed below. This succession is
appropriate for both the certificate and the non-certificate
student. Classes can also be taken in the order determined
by their prerequisites. Courses consist of exercises, critiques,
demonstrations and homework assignments. A list of supplies
for each course will be sent with your class confirmation.
1. Botanical Illustration in Pencil I
2. Botany for the Botanical Illustrator
3. Botanical Illustration in Pencil II
4. Composition for Botanical Illustration
5. Color Layering for Colored Pencil
6. Botanical Illustration in Colored Pencil I
7. Perfecting Perspective
8. Botanical Illustration in Colored Pencil II
9. Color Mixing for Artists
10. Botanical Illustration in Pen and Ink I
11. Botanical Illustration in Pen and Ink II
12. Botanical Illustration in Watercolor I
13. Botanical Illustration in Watercolor II
Elective courses serve a variety of purposes. They are de-
signed to increase the student’s knowledge, ability and ex-
perience in botanical art. In addition to the 13 required
courses, you must select 100 elective hours. The number of
elective classes offered in any one year may vary. Guest
instructor workshops may be taken as electives.
Please note: To receive credit for any course, attendance is
required at the first class and at 80 percent of all classes.
Science and Art Lectures
Selected lectures at Denver Botanic Gardens can qualify for
elective credits. Participation in one lecture gives one elec-
tive credit hour; you can receive a maximum of 15 credit
hours from these lectures. Café Botanique, organized by
Mervi Hjelmroos-Koski, is a free lecture series open to Bo-
tanical Art and Illustration students, Gardens members, the
general public, academia and artists. Pre-registration is not
required. The Café Botanique schedule is posted on the Bo-
tanical Illustration blog.
Portfolio Review
Upon completion of all course work, you may apply for portfolio
review (held each January and June) by requesting a transcript
from the Program Manager when you request your review.
The complete portfolio will contain five (5) finished
botanical plates:
1. Graphite Pencil
2. Colored Pencil
3. Pen and Ink
4. Water media
5. Artist’s choice: This can be a plate in any of the media
taught within the program or a combination of them.
G UEST WO R KS HO P S
Botanical Painting on Vellum with Kate Nessler
Painting and vellum have a long and rich history, dating to 8000
BCE, continuing with the manuscripts of the Middle Ages, and
succeeded by botanical paintings by such artists as Redoute, Ehret
and McEwen. The current resurgence of vellum’s use by contem-
porary botanical artists attests to its unique beauty and longevity.
You will learn about vellum -- its properties, possibilities, quirks
and beauty--from unrolling a full skin to mounting the finished art
in the mat. This workshop will include demonstrations and detailed
informational handouts. Using each artist’s own style while
incorporating new techniques, we will work together to find our
way across this challenging surface. The group will work, share
difficulties, discoveries and accomplishments. Individual artists will
work with confidence to expand and strengthen their own skills.
Fee: $227 member, $288 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I,
Color Mixing for Artists, Watercolor I
• Fri. – Sun., Aug. 20 – 22, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. (18 hr)
Instructor: Kate Nessler
No refunds for registration cancellations after July 26 unless
your seat can be filled.
Kate Nessler has been painting plants for more than 27 years.
Her work on vellum is recognized both nationally and interna-
Chinese Brush Painting with Sally Yu Leung
Three Friends of Winter: Pine, Bamboo and Plum
Pine (Pinus spp.), bamboo (Bambusoidea), and plum (Prunus
mume) have been known to the Chinese as the “three friends
of winter” since the 10th century. Despite the icy weather, both
pine and bamboo remain green. The rugged pine is a symbol of
longevity, nobility and venerability. Bamboo exemplifies integrity,
Cheng Shifa
Kate Nessler
tionally. She has exhibited widely and won awards including
three gold medals from the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS),
UK, and an Award of Excellence from the American Society
of Botanical Artists. In 2009 she was awarded the Kendall
Distinguished Alumni Award from Kendall College of Art and
Design, Grand Rapids, MI.
Her work is included in many private and permanent collections
including the RHS; The Hunt Institute for Botanical Documentation,
PA; The Morton Arboretum, IL; The Alisa and Isaac Sutton Collection,
NY; The Highgrove Florilegium, UK; Brooklyn Botanical Garden
Florilegium, NY; and The Shirley Sherwood Collection, UK.
for it bends in the storm, but does not break. In addition, its straight
exterior and hollow culm, symbolizes humility and fidelity. The first
to bloom in the New Year, plum is emblematic of perseverance
and purity. Other than introducing the unique characteristics and
techniques associated with traditional Chinese ink painting of pine,
bamboo and plum, this class will also explore the abiding rhythms
of nature and human culture in China. You will learn a number of
Chinese characters to create interesting sayings to complement
pine, bamboo and plum as well. Writing Chinese characters and
painting not only gives insight into Chinese culture, but can also
be a relaxing and meditative practice.
Fee: $227 member, $288 non-member. All students are
welcome, with no prerequisites.
• Fri. - Sun., Sept. 10 – 12, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. (18 hr)
Instructor: Sally Yu Leung
No refunds for registration cancellations after August 20
unless your seat can be filled.
Sally Yu Leung is an independent curator of Chinese decorative
arts, collector, practicing calligrapher, and is also the Cultural
Ambassador of the Asian Art Museum in San Francisco. She
has been a teacher of Chinese calligraphy and brush-painting
at Pixar University for some years now.
IN T RO DUC T O RY C O U R S E S
Introduction to Botanical Illustration
Are you new to drawing? If you can write with a pencil, you can
draw with one. Step-by-step, acquire the techniques you need to
draw what you see. Simple exercises train you to observe objectively
and draw accurately. A relaxed pace and straightforward instruction
will open your mind to your own creative abilities. Build drawing
skills to enter the Botanical Illustration program with confidence.
Fee: $189 member, $240 non-member. All students are
welcome, with no prerequisites. Note: If you have had some
drawing experience, please go directly to Pencil I.
• Fri., Aug. 27, Sept. 3, 17, 24, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Instructor: Karla Beatty
REQUIRED C O U R S ES
Botany for the Botanical Illustrator
What is the difference between a carpel and a pistil? Where
can I find the stamen? The science of the subjects you
draw determines what you see! Put away your pencils for this
enlightening lab class designed specifically for students of
Botanical Illustration. Take a close look at plant anatomy
and learn to recognize botanical details that will make your
drawings more accurate and realistic. Learn plant morphology
through detailed instruction and supporting visuals. All of your
botanical art will improve when you understand the subjects.
Fee: $189 member, $240 non-member. All students are
welcome, with no prerequisites.
• Mon. – Wed., July 26 - 28, 1 – 5 p.m., Thurs. July 29, 1 – 4 p.m.
Instructor: Mervi Hjelmroos-Koski
• Wed., Sept. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, 6 – 9 p.m.
Instructor: Mervi Hjelmroos-Koski
Composition for Botanical Illustration
The arrangement of line, shape and color in artwork is an art form
in itself. The difference between a pleasant picture and amazing
artwork is often found in composition. This course begins with a
study of recognized masters and contemporary illustrators. Learn
how to use compositional elements and principles in your botanical
illustration. Exercises to create your own thumbnail compositions
develop insight and expertise to enhance all of your future
illustrations.
Fee: $189 member, $240 non-member. All students are
welcome, with no prerequisites.
• Tue., Oct. 19, 26, Nov. 2, 16, 23, 6 – 9 p.m.
Instructor: Marjorie Leggitt
Botanical Illustration in Pencil I
Learn to draw! Begin with a brief history and an overview of
the specific elements of botanical illustration. Learn the skills of
careful observation and realistic drawing in graphite pencil,
including line drawing, shading and perspective. Step-by-
step, added techniques help you render perspective, texture
and detail. This is the entry course for every program student
and a prerequisite for all courses to follow. You’ll emerge from
this class with the tools you need to draw anything.
Fee: $189 member, $240 non-member. All students are
welcome, with no prerequisites. Note: If you have no previous
drawing experience, consider starting with Introduction to
Botanical Illustration.
Weekend Workshop
• Fri. – Sun., July 30 – 31, Aug. 1, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Instructor: Renee Jorgensen
• Tue., Sept. 7, 14, 21, 28, Oct. 5, 9 a.m. - noon
Instructor: Renee Jorgensen
• Sat., Oct 23, 30, Nov. 6, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Instructor: Renee Jorgensen
Offsite at Arvada Center (call 720-898-7200 to register or go
to www.arvadacenter.org)
• Mon. Oct. 18, 25, Nov. 1, 15, 22, 1:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Instructor: Marjorie Leggitt
Botanical Illustration in Pencil II
Simple and classic, pencil drawing is a timeless art form. Expand
on the drawing skills you learned in Pencil I as you reinforce and
refine your knowledge of graphite pencil. Learn additional tech-
niques for shading, texture, perspective, depth and composition. A
good drawing is the basis of botanical illustration in any medium.
Group instruction and individual attention are tailored to help you
complete a botanical plate in this subtle and striking medium.
Fee: $189 member, $240 non-member. Prerequisite: Pencil I
• Mon., Aug. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 6 – 9 p.m.
Instructor: Susan Rubin
• Mon., Oct. 25, Nov.1, 15, 22, 29, 1 – 4 p.m.
Instructor: Karla Beatty
REQUIRED C O U R S ES
Perfecting Perspective
Do you shy away from complicated plants? Even experienced
illustrators sometimes struggle with foreshortening and simplify
their subjects to eliminate difficult elements. You’ll work with
botanical subjects that demonstrate each aspect of perspective
and learn techniques for seeing and depicting perspective
accurately. Complete a final piece that shows your new under-
standing of perspective principles. The class will work entirely
in graphite pencil, but the principles apply to all art media.
Gain confidence in your drafting skills and improve all of your
drawings from this class forward.
Fee: $189 member, $240 non-member. Prerequisite: Pencil I
• Tue., Aug. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, 1 – 4 p.m.
Instructor: Marjorie Leggitt
Botanical Illustration in Pen and Ink I
Pen and ink is at the heart of botanical illustration. Expand your
drawing repertoire as you learn techniques to create line, form
and texture in black and white. “Expressive line” and “stipple”
become part of your artistic vocabulary as you practice
this traditional illustration medium with modern and versatile
technical pens. Step-by-step instruction, demonstration and
practice will give you the foundation you need to draw any
botanical subject accurately and skillfully.
Fee: $189 member, $240 non-member. Prerequisite: Pencil I
• Mon., Aug. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 9 a.m. - noon
Instructor: Renee Jorgensen
Botanical Illustration in Pen and Ink II
Take your pen and ink skills to a new level of sophistication.
Explore the Gardens’ limitless world of color, texture and
complex botany to incorporate this information into black and
white illustrations. Working with both technical pen and quill,
learn advanced techniques to make strokes mimic the fuzz on
a fern, the down of a milkweed pod, or the mottled colors of
a variegated begonia. Learn how to layer and manipulate
lines and stipples to develop a full range of value, texture
and atmospheric perspective. Pen techniques take on new
meaning as you flesh out a final inked illustration of a plant
of your choice.
Fee: $189 member, $240 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil
I, Pen and Ink I
• Mon., Oct. 18, 25, Nov. 1, 15, 22, 6 – 9 p.m.
Instructor: Marjorie Leggitt
Color Layering for Colored Pencil
Colored pencil presents a special challenge--mixing color directly
on your drawing! Learn to use a simple color mixing method,
adapted to the application of colored pencils. Two-, three- and
four-color mixing will get you to the gorgeous greens and luscious
lilacs you’ve been missing. Learn to determine shadow colors for
vibrant results. Match a variety of plant material as you create
your own, extensive color workbook to speed color selection and
application for all future colored pencil drawings.
Fee: $189 member, $240 non-member. Prerequisite: Pencil I
• Wed., Aug. 4, 11, 18, 25, Sept. 1, 1 – 4 p.m.
Instructor: Susan Rubin
Weekend Workshop
• Fri. – Sun., Nov. 19 – 21, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Instructor: Susan Rubin
Botanical Illustration in Colored Pencil I
Explore this modern medium! You’ve learned to layer colored pencil,
now learn techniques to draw effectively in this medium. Apply your
drawing skills and learn new methods specific to colored pencils.
Techniques include layering, building and burnishing in color.
This versatile, portable medium is perfect for sketching on location
as well as producing studio pieces. Learn through instruction,
demonstration and practice on small studies of botanical subjects.
You’ll be ready to produce a finished plate in Colored Pencil II.
Fee: $189 member, $240 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I
and Color Layering for Colored Pencil
• Tue., Sept. 7, 14, 21, 28, Oct. 5, 1 – 4 p.m.
Instructor: Annie Reiser
Botanical Illustration in Colored Pencil II
Take your colored pencil skills to the next level. Walk through a
six step process to create a preparatory layered drawing. Learn
about grisaille and techniques to create texture, detail and depth to
enhance your subject. Experiment with different surfaces, blending
and shading. Explore special effects you can achieve with colored
pencil on Mylar, colored and dark grounds. Group instruction and
individual attention help you to become proficient in this versatile
medium. Pull all of your colored pencil skills together to create a
finished botanical plate.
Fee: $189 member, $240 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I,
Color Layering for Colored Pencil and Colored Pencil I
• Mon., Sept. 13, 20, 27, Oct. 4, 11, 9 a.m. - noon
Instructor: Susan Rubin
REQUIRED C O U R S ES
Color Mixing for Artists
The first step to watercolor painting is mixing colors. Learn a sys-
tem for combining colors consistently so you can eliminate frustrat-
ing trial and error. Lots of exercises, demonstrations and discussion
will show you how to achieve the broadest possible spectrum. Learn
about paint properties and important information about choosing
pigments. Practice mixing colors to match a variety of plant material.
You’ll gain confidence and skills to improve all of your color work.
Fee: $189 member, $240 non-member. All students are
welcome, with no prerequisites.
• Thurs., Aug. 5, 12, 19, 26, Sept. 2, 9 a.m. – noon
Instructor: Constance Sayas
Botanical Illustration in Watercolor I
Become part of the watercolor botanical tradition. Combine
drawing skills and your knowledge of color mixing as you
discover the delight of putting brush to paper to learn the specific
techniques of transparent watercolor. Instruction, demonstra-
tion and practical exercises will guide you through a variety of
watercolor techniques: flat and graded washes, highlights and dry
brush detail. Learn to build washes for depth of tone and shading,
and how to create soft and hard edges. With these foundational
skills you’ll be ready to create a finished plate in Watercolor II.
Fee: $189 member, $240 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I
and Color Mixing for Artists
• Thurs., Aug. 5, 12, 26, Sept. 2, 9, 6 – 9 p.m.
Instructor: Karla Beatty
• Tue., Oct. 26, Nov. 2, 16, 23, 30, 9 a.m. – noon
Instructor: Karla Beatty
Botanical Illustration in Watercolor II
Watercolor basics got you started - now develop your confidence
and personal style. The emphasis here is on bringing it all to-
gether. Learn and refine additional techniques through instruction,
demonstration and practice with special attention given to layering,
shading and building form. Discover brush techniques and
colors that enhance perspective and depth. Follow painting steps
through completion, from broad washes to final detail. Learn
how to fix mistakes and understand why watercolor is a forgiving
medium. You’ll work toward completing a finished plate from a live
specimen in this most traditional of botanical media.
Fee: $189 member, $240 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I,
Color Mixing for Artists and Watercolor I
• Mon., Aug. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 1 – 4 p.m.
Instructor: Constance Sayas
E L E CTI V E CO U R S E S
Art Materials for the Botanical Illustrator
Take the mystery out of materials. There are ten types of
erasers - which one is right for the job? What is the difference
between sable and synthetic? What’s vellum? This information-
packed class will provide you with detailed information
about all of the art materials used throughout the Botanical
Illustration program. From papers to pencils to inks, pens,
brushes and paints, you’ll learn where and how to find all the
right materials and how they are used. Save time and money
by shopping expertly the first time.
Fee: $37 member, $44 non-member. All students are welcome,
with no prerequisites.
• Thurs., Nov. 18, 9 a.m. – noon
Instructor: Renee Jorgensen
Botany Spotlight: Composite Flowers
Sunflowers, daisies, asters and more! These flowers are
complicated combinations of ray flowers, disk flowers and bracts,
which are all commonly confused with simple petals. Instruction and
examples will help you to understand the structures. In this one –
day lab class use a microscope to examine details closely and sketch
them in pencil. When you understand better, you’ll draw better.
Fee: $70 member, $85 non-member. Prerequisites: Botany, Pencil I
• Thurs., Sept. 23, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Instructor: Mervi Hjelmroos-Koski
Botany Spotlight: Conifer Cones
Those cones are complicated! Sort them out step-by-step as
you learn the botanical details, from bract and seed scales
to juniper “berries” and all that defines the conifer strobilus.
In this one - day lab class use a microscope to examine
details closely and sketch them in pencil. When you understand
better, you’ll draw better.
Fee: $70 member, $85 non-member. Prerequisites: Botany,
Pencil I
• Thurs., Oct. 12, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Instructor: Mervi Hjelmroos-Koski
EL ECTIV E CO U R S E S

Harvest of Seeds – Art and the Microscope Compelling Compositions

Up close and personal,
discover the wonder
and diversity of native
seeds: tiny, gift-wrapped
packages of life and
exemplars of beauty and
function. Focus on com-
position and precision
as you study the charac-
teristic form and unique
surface features before
documenting and drawing
every detail. Consider
the possibilities for a
compositional masterwork
E. Deridder in your choice of medium.
Your finished piece may be the new cover for Denver Botanic
Gardens’ Index Seminum 2010 (published in 2011). Microscopy
class, limited to 10 seats.
Fee: $189 member, $240 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I
and introductory class of the color medium of your choice is
strongly recommended.
• Fri., Oct. 22, 29, Nov. 5, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Instructor: Mervi Hjelmroos-Koski
Light on Form
Put composition into context! Review the fundamentals of composition
and then use them to create your own compelling work.
Starting with subjects supplied by the instructor, explore the
benefits of “thumbnail designing” and value mock-ups. Learn to
plan, build and arrange new compositions using trace overlays.
Individual and group critiques provide the opportunity to analyze
already finished pieces for compositional excellence. You’ll learn
how to deconstruct, and recompose the work for improved effect.
Expert guidance and new strategies will help you to complete a
new botanical plate or a redesigned composition. Appropriate for
all, this class is also suited to anyone preparing a portfolio.
Fee: $189 member, $240 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil
I, Composition, and introductory class of the color medium of
your choice is strongly recommended.
• Tue., Oct. 19, 26, Nov. 2, 16, 23, 1 – 4 p.m.
Instructor: Marjorie Leggitt
From Seed to Table
Fresh herbs boost flavor and nutrition in cooking - but how do you
use all those spicy and aromatic green leaves? Join cooking and
journaling instructor Maria Hodkins for a celebration of culinary
herbs by creating a meal that not only reflects the taste of local,
in-season and fresh, but the beauty and history of the ingredients
as well. From seed to table, we will trace the herbs from botanical,
cultural, historical, and nutritional perspectives, create individual
“Herb Portraits”, prepare a meal, and feast on its ecological
pleasures. See, sketch, chop, and taste your way into deeper
reflection and appreciation of seasonal gifts from the land.
Fee: $70 member, $85 non-member. Prerequisites: All students
are welcome, with no prerequisites (Pencil I recommended).

• Sat. Aug. 28, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Instructor: Maria Hodkins
Susan Rubin

Take your drawings from flat to fabulous. The secret to portraying

light and shadow on your subjects lies in understanding the scientific
method of lighting as it applies to different forms. Beginning with
basic geometric shapes, refine your skills in showing light and
volume on any subject. The class will work entirely in graphite
pencil, but the principles apply to all other media. As you
progress to fruits and vegetables, leaves, flowers, and ultimate-
ly entire plants with complex combinations of shapes, you will
overcome the obstacles in creating three-dimensional drawings.
Fee: $189 member, $240 nonmember. Prerequisite:: Pencil I

• Wed., Oct. 6, 13, 20, 27, Nov. 3, 6 – 9 p.m.

Instructor: Susan Rubin
Maria Hodkins
EL ECTIV E CO U R S E S
Drawing on Tradition: Field Sketches with Arthur Lakes
Arthur Lakes
At the turn of the 20th century, Arthur Lakes was Colorado’s
Renaissance man. A prolific illustrator, Lakes was also was
a minister, geologist, professor, paleontologist, writer, and
naturalist. With a fresh and straightforward approach to field
sketching, Lakes’ work offers a perfect launching point for our
plein air adventure. Begin at Dinosaur Ridge in Morrison, where
the biographers of Arthur Lakes will orient you to his work and
methods. Move out to the ridge to capture grand panoramas in
Micron pen. The next two days will be in the Gardens, learning
to edit and draw more intimate landscapes. Learn to effectively
use line and cross-hatching to quickly record the environment.
Whether you are new to field sketching or have experience,
you’ll enjoy this loose and immediate approach.
Fee: $189 member, $240 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I
• Thurs.– Sat., Oct. 7 – 9, 9 a.m.– 2:30 p.m.
Instructor: Marjorie Leggitt
Creative Hand Lettering II
Come experiment with the beautiful art of calligraphic lettering!
Whether you are labeling your botanical artwork, taking notes
in your sketchbook or even jotting entries into your garden
diary, this wonderful art form adds the final touch. Using the
basic techniques from Hand Lettering I/Calligraphy I you’ll
learn new methods and exercise to refine your skills for both
scientific labeling and other creative uses.
Fee: $189 member, $240 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I,
Creative Hand Lettering I or Calligraphy I
• Wed., Sep. 22, 29, Oct. 6, 13, 20, 1 – 4 p.m.
Instructor: Renee Jorgensen
Graphite Pencil
Flowers: Perspective II
As blossoms bend and turn, the shapes and sizes appear to shift.
Practice perspective on different flower forms as you hone your
drafting skills. The key to confident drawing is in accurately seeing
and recording accurate views of your botanical subject. Investigate
unusual and interesting ways to show flowers to create interesting
compositions with a fresh point of view. Demonstrations, practice
and individual attention will prepare you to complete several flower
compositions in pencil and make all of your drawings better.
Fee: $189 member, $240 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I,
Perfecting Perspective
• Tue., Aug. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, 9 a.m. – noon
Instructor: Marjorie Leggitt
Champion Trees of the Gardens in Pencil
Denver is proud of its many Champion Trees - large and varied
specimens that lend the city its beautiful summer canopy. Twenty-
three of these trees are at the Gardens and offer an unparalleled
opportunity for artists. Begin with a tour by a Gardens’ expert who
will identify the champions and discuss their importance. Learn how
to scale and draw entire trees from a distance outdoors, including
the canopy, branches and trunks. Back in the classroom, create a
composition including the silhouette as well as detailed views of
leaves, bark and twigs. Work in graphite to carefully depict form and
texture. Your finished portrait will be a record of a growing part of
Denver’s history.
Fee: $189 member, $240 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I
• Wed. Sep. 8, 15, 22, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Instructor: Karla Beatty
Carbon Dust
Karla Beatty
Push your drawing skills into a new realm. Carbon dust has been a
mainstay medium for medical and scientific illustrators for more than
75 years. Using a combination of pencil lines and dust “washes”
applied with brushes, this medium produces rich, tonal renderings
with the value range of charcoal and the precision of watercolor.
You’ll be introduced to the various tools associated with carbon
EL ECTIV E CO U R S E S

dust, including carbon pencils, dust, brushes, blenders and fixative.
Choose a subject well suited to the technique and learn to use
methodical layering to create a flawless continuous tone. Complete
the finer details with pencil for a finished carbon-dust rendering.
Fee: $189 member, $240 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I
Fee: $189 member, $240 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I,
Color Layering for Colored Pencil, Colored Pencil II
• Tue., July 27, Aug. 10, 17, 24, 31, 6 - 9 p.m.
Instructor: Annie Reiser

• Mon., Sept. 13, 20, 27, 4, 11, 6 – 9 p.m. Draw from your Photos
Instructor: Karla Beatty

Drawing on Tradition: Up Close with Karl Blossfelt

In the early 1900s, German photog-
rapher Karl Blossfelt developed a new
style of photography and turned his
attention to plants. Enlarged and
sharply focused on texture and form,
his beautiful black and white photos
formed a bridge between nature and
modern design. Borrow the lighting
and style from Blossfelt to develop Susan Rubin Susan Rubin

your own striking design. With You photographed the hibiscus in Hawaii. You want to draw those
Karl Blossfeldt instruction, guidance and new drawing alpine plants and aren’t allowed to pick them. There are times
techniques, create a finished work in graphite pencil with a when a live specimen is simply not an option. Discover how to
remarkably contemporary aesthetic. work from your own photographs to create a successful illustration
Fee: $189 member, $240 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil long after the specimen has gone. Start with instruction on taking
I, Pencil II effective photos for reference. Learn techniques to interpret and
alter composition, color and lighting that will bring life to your work
• Mon., Sept. 20, 27, Oct. 4, 11, 18, 1 – 4 p.m. and avoid that literal “drawn from a photo” look. Use your new
Instructor: Susan Rubin skills to create a lasting plant portrait from your own photograph
in the medium of your choice.
Fee: $189 member, $240 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I,
Colored Pencil Level I of a color medium.

Working with Mylar: Colored Pencil III • Wed., Aug. 4, 11, 18, 25, Sept. 1, 9 a.m. – noon
The modern medium meets Instructor: Susan Rubin
a fresh surface! Frosted My-
lar film provides a wonderful
surface for smooth, brilliant Pansy Portrait: Colored Pencil Techniques
colored pencil work. Learn Lush, layered pansy pulchritude! A few familiar pansy faces
the skills specific to film, become a whole bouquet as you look at different angles and
including pencil application views to expand the composition across the page. Careful plan-
and layering techniques, ning launches a complex and intriguing painting that is a joy to
how to make the back of the complete. Use the colored pencil skills you’ve mastered to depict
surface enhance the front, the velvety textures and rich colors of the pansy. New techniques
and how to erase (yes, erase!) and new materials enhance your finished pansy portrait.
colored pencil from Mylar. See Fee: $189 member, $240 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I,
how layering your drawing Color Layering for Colored Pencil, Colored Pencil I
over other surfaces expands Annie Reiser
the possibilities for your finished work. Samples, demonstrations • Thurs., Sept. 9, 16, 30, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
and individual help will guide you to a finished piece. Instructor: Libby Kyer
EL ECTIV E CO U R S E S
Drawing on Tradition: High Design and Art Nouveau
In the late 1800s, Czech artist
Alphons Mucha enhanced an
international arts movement when
his theatrical posters designed for
actress Sarah Bernhardt took Paris
by storm. Characterized by curvi-
linear elements and stylized plant
forms, Art Nouveau is a perfect start-
ing point for decorative botanical
art. Learn more about the artists
who made the movement and gain
inspiration from their work. Learn
Susan Rubin new skills to work on a dark or
colored background. Step-by-step, you will design your own
template and combine decorative details and lettering with
botanical accuracy to create an appealing retro masterpiece
in colored pencil.
Fee: $189 member, $240 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I,
Color Layering for Colored Pencil, Colored Pencil I
• Thurs., Oct. 7, 14, 21, 28, Nov. 4, 9 a.m. – noon
Instructor: Susan Rubin
Building Colored Pencil Paintings
Three days, one complete colored pencil painting, zero
homework! You can do it when you learn and use traditional
painting techniques as they apply to colored pencil. Using the
skills you already know and incorporating the atelier system of
Libby Kyer
intense observation, sketching, studies, under-painting and
blocking in, you will create a lush, fully realized work of art in
record time. Explore the attributes of colored pencil that make
them a perfect fit for wet or dry applications. The skills you
practice will improve all of your colored pencil work!
Fee: $189 member, $240 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I,
Color Layering for Colored Pencil, Colored Pencil I
Weekend Workshop
• Fri. – Sun., Oct. 15 – 17, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Instructor: Libby Kyer
Watermedia
The Illuminated Herbal: From A to Z, part II
In medieval Europe, written works began and ended with
monastic scribes. Their exquisite illuminations stand as a
memorial to the world before the printing press. Begin in
the Helen Fowler library to view examples of medieval
manuscripts and research the elements of medieval illumina-
tion. Apply this knowledge to the skills you learned in earlier
Illumination classes. Working with both line and water media,
design and paint an ornamental medieval letterform showcasing
a miniature painting of a traditional and/or common herb.
Your finished piece may be part of a Gardens’ project to
publish an illuminated medieval herbal alphabet.
Fee: $189 member, $240 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I,
Color Mixing for Artists and Watercolor I
• Thurs., Aug. 5, 12, 19, 26, Sept. 2, 1 – 4 p.m.
Instructor: Renee Jorgensen
Watercolor Pencils I
It’s dry, it’s wet, it’s mixed media in a single pencil! Discover
the versatility of watercolor pencils. Start with color studies
to explore the qualities of watercolor pencils as they trans-
late into watercolor. Experiment with graphite pencil and
ink as embellishments, as you develop and work on sketches
from your journal, then put your new skills to use to create a
finished botanical plate in this fresh and fluid medium.
Fee: $189 member, $240 nonmember. Prerequisite: Pencil I,
Color layering for Colored Pencil
• Thurs., Sept. 9, 16, 23, 30, Oct. 7, 6 – 9 p.m.
Instructor: Renee Jorgensen
EL ECTIV E CO U R S E S

Beyond Ordinary Fee: $189 member, $240 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I,

Beauty is in the details, and some- Color Mixing for Artists, Watercolor I
times the unexpected! Investigate
the less glamorous side of botany; • Thurs., Oct. 7, 14, 21, 28, Nov. 4, 1 – 4 p.m.
the dead parts, buried parts, dull Instructor: Constance Sayas
parts, backs and bottoms. Practice
with composition, scale and view
to find and portray beautiful Wild Berries in the ‘Hood
botanical elements in a finished Beautiful berries brighten
Constance Sayas watercolor painting. Use all of autumn branches long
your watercolor skills and learn a few new techniques to enhance after the flowers have
your work. The results will excite and surprise, and you’ll grow faded. Shrubs like privet,
with your new point of view. bayberry, Oregon grape,
Fee: $189 member, $240 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I, holly, mountain ash boast
Color Mixing for Artists, Watercolor I berries in reds, violets,
and blues. Begin with
• Tue., Sept. 7, 21, 28, Oct. 5, 12, 6 – 9 p.m. a study of how other
Karla Beatty
Instructor: Constance Sayas botanical artists have
captured these tiny trea-
sures. Plan a composition of berries as they hang on their branches.
Drawing on Tradition: Use your color mixing skills to match delicate and varied colors
Margaret Mee and the Bromeliads and sharpen your dry brush technique to depict every detail in a
Margaret Mee began her painting finished botanical plate. Embrace the challenge of painting tiny
expeditions in the Amazon in the subjects in the context of a larger composition.
1950s. Her beautiful botanicals are Fee: $189 member, $240 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I,
her legacy to rainforest education Color Mixing for Artists, Watercolor I
and conservation. Learn about
her remarkable story and work as • Mon., Oct. 25, Nov. 1, 15, 22, 29, 9 a.m. - noon
you direct your painting skills to bro- Instructor: Karla Beatty
meliads. Using your choice of water-
color or gouache, you will concen-
trate on leaves: their use in effective NEW SERIES: EXPLORE COLORADO
Karla Beatty
composition, dimensional depiction Offsite in Gateway Canyons Resort, Gateway, CO
of light on form, colors, patterns and textures. Refine your skills at
washes, as they will form the foundation for your finished botanical Artist’s Visual Journal: Gateway Canyons
plate - in the footsteps of Margaret Mee. A pencil and a journal are
Fee: $189 member, $240 non-member. Prerequisite: Pencil I, all you need to record your
Color Mixing for Artists, Watercolor I days in beautiful Gateway
Canyon. Start indoors with
• Wed., Oct. 6, 13, 20, 27, Nov. 3, 9 a.m. – noon a brief introduction to botan-
Instructor: Constance Sayas ical illustration. Instruction in
field sketching skills includes
shape, value, texture and
Autumn Leaves in Watercolor composition. Take your new drawing
Expand your watercolor repertoire. Colorful autumn leaves are techniques outdoors and explore the
your playground as you explore new techniques and materials canyon, mesa and mountains of the
to create artistic leaf studies. With a focus on painterly effects, area as you practice sketching what
you’ll experiment with dabbing, splattering and charging. Sounds you see. Whether you are doing
like fun? That’s the idea. Play with watercolor and develop new small studies for finished work back in
techniques to enhance your illustrations. the studio or the journal is the finished
Renee Jorgensen
EL ECTIV E CO U R S E S
work in itself, you’ll enjoy drawing these “snapshots” of what you see.
Bring your hiking boots and be ready for a little adventure!
Fee: $280 member, $315 non-member (including breakfast
and lunch). All students are welcome, with no prerequisites
Weekend Workshop
• Fri. – Sat., July 23-24, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sun., July 25, 9 a.m. - noon
Instructor: Renee Jorgensen
To get the special room rate please make your reservation before
June 7, 2010 – number of rooms is limited. (Gateway Canyons
Resort, 1-866-671-4733, please identify yourself as part of the Denver
Botanic Gardens group, Dolores River Rooms $129/night with
double occupancy, $50 per person extra charge per day for guests
ages 12 and older with more than two guests. For more information,
please contact mervihj@botanicgardens.org or call 720-865-3653).
Botanical Landscapes: Gateway Canyons
The red canyon, mountains, plateau and
running water of Gateway Canyons are the
beautiful backdrop for this outdoor painting
experience. Begin with a classroom discus-
sion of the plants found in the area. Learn
about types of watercolor landscapes to see
how they relate to botanical art and exam-
ine how other artists have treated plants in
the landscape. Move outdoors and learn to
Karla Beatty translate studio botanical illustration painting
REG ISTRATI O N I N FO R MATI O N
Five Easy Ways to Enroll
1. By Telephone: 720-865-3580
2. By Fax: 720-865-3685 (24 HOURS)
3. In Person: Visit the Education Office at the Gardens,
1007 York Street, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., Monday – Friday
4. By Mail: Attention: Registration Coordinator,
909 York Street, Denver, CO 80206
5. Online: www.botanicgardens.org
Refund and Cancellation Policy:
Cancellations more than one week prior to a class are subject to a 15%
cancellation fee. Cancellations with less than one week notice are non-
refundable. Please consider your payment a donation to the Gardens.
After Course has Commenced:
Instructors have no authority to grant or promise refunds. In the
event of a family emergency or because of inclement weather
skills to watercolor techniques for landscape painting. See how to plan
palette colors, create effective washes for skies and clouds and use
different methods of brushwork to create landscapes depicting accu-
rate botanical subjects. Challenge yourself to enjoy the fresh air and
expand your botanical range. . . on the range!
Fee: $280 member, $315 non-member (including breakfast
and lunch). Prerequisites: For intermediate to advanced
watercolor painters, some watercolor skills are necessary
Weekend Workshop
• Fri. – Sat., Oct. 1-2, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sun., Oct. 3, 9 a.m. - noon
Instructor: Karla Beatty
To get the special room rate please make your reservation
before August 31, 2010 – number of rooms is limited. (Gateway
Canyons Resort, 1.866.671.4733, please identify yourself
as part of the Denver Botanic Gardens group, Dolores River
Rooms $114/night with double occupancy, $50 per person
extra charge per day for guests ages 12 and older with
more than two guests. For more information, please contact
mervihj@botanicgardens.org or call 720.865.3653)
BOTANICAL ILLUSTRATION RETREAT AT
GATEWAY CANYON RESORT, GATEWAY, CO
November 8 – 12, 2010
Five days filled with workshops, presentations, demos,
portfolio sharing, and other related activities.Reserve the
date - Program details will be announced in August.
circumstances, the student can later complete the course by
taking the missed classes from the same instructor and notifying
the program manager two weeks before the course starts. If 60-80
percent of the course is missed because of the family emergency
or the inclement weather circumstances, the course can be re-taken
from any instructor in that media if space is available.
These policies apply to all registrations in the Botanical Art and
Illustration Program. Selected courses have additional cancellation
and refund requirements printed with the course description. Den-
ver Botanic Gardens regrets that it cannot make exceptions.
Certificate Credit Requirements
for Individual Courses:
Attendance is required at the first class for all courses. In order
to receive credit, 80 percent of a course must be attended (at
least 12 hours of a 15-hour course).
C ONTINUING ED U C AT I ON R E GI S TR ATI O N

Name

Address

City State Zip

Evening Phone Work Phone

E-Mail

Course Title Date Course # Fee Qty Total

TOTAL AMOUNT DUE $

Denver Botanic Gardens Member ID #

Payment Method Cash Check MasterCard American Express Visa

Card # Exp Date

Signature
Please note: Walk-in registrants will be charged a $10 late registration fee.

Please mail with check or credit card information to

Registrar, Denver Botanic Gardens

909 York Street
Denver, CO 80206

Please see waiver and release form and complete

class information (including our cancellation policy)
on your class acknowledgement form. 10th & York Street www.botanicgardens.org