Practical courses for the artists, designers and writers of the future who wish to develop a competitive portfolio and experience university life. Book your place on a Summer School course today!
Introduction:
Discover the art of nature through botanical drawing and illustration, unleash your creativity and explore the fascinating world of plants in this fun, hands-on short course where artistic expression meets scientific observation.
Whether you’re an absolute beginner or already enjoy sketching, you’ll learn new skills and develop your unique artistic style.
What You'll Study:
You will begin by exploring the fundamentals of botanical drawing through close observation of plants and flowers. Using sketchbooks, you’ll create detailed studies inspired by flora in your surroundings, learning how to capture their intricate shapes, textures, and colours.
Alongside your artistic practice, you’ll delve into the science of botany, gaining insights into plant structures, growth patterns, and habitats. You’ll also consider environmental challenges affecting plant life globally and in the UK, which will inspire your creative work, giving it a meaningful connection to current global and environmental issues.
Practical, hands-on sessions will allow you time to develop your sketches and botanical drawings and illustrations. You’ll participate in outdoor activities where you’ll observe and sketch plants in their natural environments, sharpening your observational and creative skills. In the studio, you’ll refine these drawings, turning them into polished illustrations while experimenting with colour and composition.
Group discussions and critiques will provide valuable opportunities to share ideas, receive feedback, and connect with other like-minded young artists.
During this course, you will:
observe plants and flowers closely and translate their unique details into sketches
experiment with a variety of artistic techniques, such as watercolor, pen-and-ink, and mixed media
gain confidence in both traditional and modern approaches to botanical illustration
discuss and reflect on the environmental and scientific importance of your subject matter
receive feedback and guidance from your tutor to help develop your personal style.
In addition, you’ll discover the range of careers where botanical illustration is essential. From scientific research and conservation projects to book publishing, landscape design, and textile arts, the course will introduce you to exciting future possibilities.
By the end of this course, you’ll have a portfolio of original botanical illustrations that showcase your artistic growth and passion for the natural world.
You will have developed a deeper appreciation for the connection between art, science, and environmental awareness, empowering you to approach your creative practice with both skill and purpose.
Social Events:
We appoint NTU Student Ambassadors who host social events on Monday and Wednesday evening to help you make friends across the whole of our summer school programme for 15 – 17 year olds, which are free to attend.
Duke of Edinburgh:
This course can count as your Gold DofE Residential Award and is an amazing opportunity to make new friends and memories. It will be fun and gently challenging, allowing you to follow your passion and discover talents you never knew you had.
DofE participants must book both the course and accommodation on campus for this to count towards your Gold Award.
You must also attend the social events that are planned on Monday and Wednesday evenings, and you must plan and attend your own social activities with other participants on Tuesday and Thursday evenings.
Prices:
Course: £525.00 + (optional) Accommodation: £259.00
You can find out more about our facilities, tutors and how to book your place on the NTU website.