Botanical illustration

Learn the basics of painting with the exciting medium of gouache with professional Illustrator Francesca Mclean, who will share with you her approach to painting orchids in a modern illustrative style.

The workshop will begin with a brief introduction to gouache, followed by some simple exercises allowing you to get used to working with gouache paint. You will practice techniques including layering, wet on wet paint and creating texture with a dry brush. You will then create an A5 gouache painting of a common spotted-orchid, watching and painting with Francesca who will be offering lots of guidance throughout the workshop.

To take part in this workshop you will need:

Pencil

This is optional in order to sketch outlines prior to painting if you wish. Any pencil you have available will be suitable for this activity.

Paper

We will be using 7”x10” smooth/hot press watercolour paper however an A4 piece of heavy paper will be suitable. If you have plain copier paper available this may be used to experiment, however, please be aware that the paper may buckle from the application of water.

Paints

We will be using Winsor and Newton Designer Gouache in Olive Green, Permanent White and Brilliant Violet however acrylic paint in green, purple/pink and white will work well as an alternative.

Paintbrush

We are using a 9.5mm round brush but any small, rounded paintbrush with a fine tip will be suitable. 

 

This is a FREE talk open to all which will be live-streamed on our Facebook and YouTube accounts at 11am.

The event will be 45 minutes long with a 15 minute Q&A at the end.

Please join us for elevenses and learn something new about botanical illustrations!

We have free online events happening every day this week at 11am as part of our Coombe Bissett Down Chalk Celebration Week, so be sure to check them out too!