Intro to Botanical Painting, Vegetables - Kew Online Course

Unlock the secrets of botanical illustration with this comprehensive online course from the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, in partnership with David & Charles! Learn to create stunningly realistic paintings of sweet red peppers (capsicum) in a classic natural history style.

Guided by Rachel Pedder-Smith, a master illustrator from Kew, this self-paced course offers over 2 hours of premium tuition, equivalent to a full-day workshop. Perfect for aspiring artists and botanical enthusiasts, you’ll master the core techniques of watercolour painting to replicate the intricate textures and subtle translucency of plants.

Here's what you'll learn:

• Introduction: Get acquainted with the course and your expert tutor.
• Course Overview & Materials: Understand the tools and resources needed for success.
• Practice Exercise: Red Ball: Build foundational skills with a simple form.
• Preparing the Pepper: Learn how to observe and prepare your subject.
• Initial Pencil Sketch: Develop accurate drawing skills for a realistic composition.
• Initial Washes: Master the art of applying foundational watercolour washes.
• Building Up Form and Dimension with Paint: Create depth and volume using layering techniques.
• Brightening the Colour: Add highlights and luminosity to your painting.
• The Final Red Washes: Achieve rich, vibrant tones for the pepper.
• Adding the Green Stem: Complete the painting with accurate botanical details.
• What to Try Next: Explore further learning opportunities.

This online course allows you to learn at your own pace, revisiting videos as often as you like. Develop your skills in watercolour techniques, plant illustration, and natural history art. Create beautiful, realistic botanical art that you can be proud of! Whether you're a beginner or have some experience, this course will help you achieve professional-looking results.