26–27 September 2026 | 9:30 am – 3:00 pm | 14 students — Denver Botanic Gardens, Colorado
This two-day workshop at Denver Botanic Gardens focuses on working from seasonal wild plants, using measured drawings and close observation to understand structure, proportion, and botanical character. Participants will explore ways to record surface texture, fine detail, and tonal contrast, using the natural variations of wild plants to strengthen form and depth. The workshop emphasises a thoughtful balance between scientific accuracy and expressive interpretation, supporting a deeper, more responsive botanical practice.
Set within the inspiring environment of Denver Botanic Gardens, this two-day workshop focuses on working from seasonal wild plants, observing how they grow, and examining structure, proportion, and the visual clues that reveal growth patterns and environmental response. Participants will learn to slow down and study living material through measured drawings, gaining a deeper understanding of proportion, structure, and botanical character. We will explore techniques for recording texture, surface detail, and tonal variation, and for using contrast to strengthen form and spatial clarity.
Special attention will be given to plants in their natural seasonal state — seed heads, fading petals, changing leaves — embracing imperfection as a source of information and beauty. Moving from observation to drawing and painting, this workshop encourages thoughtful decision-making and a balance between scientific accuracy and personal interpretation. It is ideal for artists wishing to deepen their relationship with wild plants and develop a more confident, expressive, and informed botanical practice.
Date: 26–27 September 2026
Time: 9:30 am – 3:00 pm
Location: Denver Botanic Gardens
Capacity: 14 students