The Art of Observation: A Botanical Art Primer

Class Overview: 

This workshop is a perfect first class for those new to botanical art and illustration.  The workshop will begin with an introduction to botanical art and participants will have an opportunity to practice their own observations through drawing exercises that emphasize the importance of looking closely at intricate details of natural specimens. Following the drawing session, participants will visit the Andersen Horticultural Library for a behind-the-scenes tour of the rare book collection, highlighting works from AHL's collection and the Flora and Fauna Illustrata project.

In this  class you will: 

• Learn about the purpose of botanical art.
• Explore learning about the botanical world through observational drawing.
• Try your hand at observational drawing with introductory guided exercises.
• Learn about the importance of preserving botanical books and works of art.

Supplies/Equipment: All supplies will be provided including dried botanical specimens and pencils and paper.

Instructor: 

Alyssa Gregory is a library assistant at the Andersen Horticultural Library, where she coordinates the Flora and Fauna Illustrata Project and curates the children’s book collection. She also supports outreach events at the Bell Museum, where she enjoys bringing specimens and activities from the Bell to communities around the Twin Cities Metro. When not at work, Alyssa enjoys hiking at Minnesota State Parks and exploring nature through different forms of art.