My Online and Distance Learning courses have been operating successfully for eleven years. During that time many hundreds of students globally have completed the course, and many have gone on to exhibit and produce some amazing work. Students ages have been from 15 to 90, and all finished the course with a superb painting and a great sense of satisfaction.
“…botanical draughtsmanship demands understanding of the plant, even down to minute detail, as well as its portrayal with accuracy and grace…precise observation develops superb techniques of drawing and colouring.”
William T. Stern in ‘The Orchid Paintings of Franz Bauer’
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Why Distance Learning?
You may be unable to attend regular classes due to your location, current employment or study, health issues, time or commitment factors.
What advantages does Distance Learning offer?
You work at your own pace from the comfort of home and there are absolutely no time restrictions. All skills levels are catered for from the absolute beginner to the experienced artist who would like to learn new skills.
Do I need previous experience?
No previous knowledge is required or assumed. You will learn everything you need to know about botanical drawing and painting; from paper, materials and drawing techniques, through all facets of watercolour painting, including colour mixing, matching and glazing to the final painting. Modules will cover tone, light and shade, texture, composition and form, and much more.
You will learn to create the illusion of realism and three dimensionality, and develop your observational skills.
Is the Online course expensive?
It is considerably less expensive to do the Online course, than attending classes or workshops. You receive one-on-one tuition and a detailed critique with suggestions for each assignment. The course cost is AUD $395.
Are there time restrictions?
There is a 12 month time restriction on the course but no deadlines for individual assignments.
Do I need a computer? Are the lessons done online?
Distance Learning: No, you do not need a computer as the original work is posted to me. I critique the work and post back to you with the next assignments.
Online Learning: Yes, you will need a computer as your scan or photograph your assignments and email to me for assessment.
How many modules are there?
There are ten modules in all, including a Drawing and Watercolour component. Each module contains an average of ten pages of comprehensive information and course notes and assignments, step by step demonstrations and examples to follow. These pages can be put together at the completion of the course to form a book ‘Focus on Nature: The Art of Natural History’, which will be a permanent research and revision book for your library.
Each module follows a logical sequence and builds on the knowledge gained in the previous modules.
How long will the course take to complete
There is a twelve month time restriction for all modules to be completed. You work at your own pace, but there is no definite deadline on each individual assignment.
How do I enrol and pay?
A registration form is sent on request. Payment is made by direct debit and banking details will be sent on request. On receipt course presentation information and the first Modulewith assignments will be sent.
Do I receive any qualifications?
The only formal recognised qualifications in botanical art or natural history are those acquired at university within a Natural History degree. You will receive a Certificate of Merit on completion of this course.