This workshop is designed to introduce the fundamental watercolour techniques used in botanical illustration. You will learn how to draw plants accurately by observing basic botanical shapes and structures, developing your ability to:
See and identify shapes, judge angles with precision, draw in correct proportion, represent three-dimensional form through tonal value, use light and shade to bring your drawing to life, apply watercolour washes and mix colours with confidence.
Throughout the workshop, plants and their parts — colours, textures and fine details — will be examined closely. You will have the opportunity to work on different types of leaves and flowers, exploring their intricate structures. The course will help you combine scientific accuracy with an aesthetic vision to create beautiful botanical illustrations.
Dates: 23–26 October 2025
Time: 9.00–14.00
Price: €460
Location: Studio ArtVallès — C/Pallars 152, 08005, Poblenou, Barcelona — www.artvalles.org
Level: All levels
Participants: Limited to 10
Language: The course is organised in Spanish, though in practice sessions have always been conducted in a lively mix of Spanish, English and occasional Turkish, depending on the participants.
To apply: Amina Sayula Everard — amina@artvalles.org / +34 617 622 211
Recommended Materials
Drawing pencils (2H, HB, 2B, 4B)
Propelling pencil (with 0.35 point 2H, HB lead)
Divider
Eraser and Putty rubber
Sharpener
Ruler (if possible)
Tracing paper
Sketching paper (smooth cartridge paper or pad, 120–160 gsm, A4 or A3)
Watercolour sable brushes (sizes 4, 3 and 2; a selection of finer brushes for detail work, Winsor & Newton Series 7 recommended, though any preferred brand is suitable)
Palette
Watercolour pigments (Winsor & Newton Artist's Value recommended, though any preferred brand is suitable. Suggested colours: Indigo, Payne’s Gray, French Ultramarine, Winsor Blue (green shade), Perylene Maroon, Winsor Red, Winsor purple, Permanent Rose, Cadmium Lemon, Green Gold, Sepia)
Watercolour papers (minimum 300 gsm, hot pressed, 100% cotton recommended, A3 or A4, *Cold press papers are not suitable for this course)
Drawing board (if possible)
