2009 SUMMER-FALL CATALOG

CERTIFICATE IN BOTANICAL ART AND ILLUSTRATION

Botanical art and illustration is the well-established tradition of portraying plants for scientific purposes, recording vanishing
species for historical recollection or rendering the beauty and inspiration we experience in the flora of the world around us.

Denver Botanic Gardens’ Certificate in Botanical Art and Illustration program is designed to teach a comprehensive series of
classes in botanical illustration, offering participants the drawing and painting skills required to render accurate and useful
depictions of the plant world with a focus on detail. This program is for the dedicated illustrator, as well as the devoted ama-
teur. It culminates in a certificate for some students and offers an ongoing program of botanical classes for others.

Introductory Courses experience in botanical art. In addition to the 13 required

Students wishing to learn more about botanical illustration
or brush up on their skills before beginning the certificate
sequence can take introductory courses that are not part of
the certificate requirements: Introduction to Botanical Illus-
tration, Art Materials for the Botanical Illustrator and Intro-
duction to Drawing in Pencil.
courses, you must select 100 elective hours. The number of
elective classes offered in any one year may vary. Guest
instructor workshops may be taken as electives.
Please note: To receive credit for any course, attendance is
required at the first class and at 80 percent of all classes.

Science and Art Lectures

Required Courses
The following 13 courses are required if you wish to receive
a Certificate in Botanical Art and Illustration. The recom-
mended sequence of courses is listed below. This succession
is appropriate for both the certificate and the non-certificate
student. Classes can also be taken in the order determined by
their prerequisites. Courses consist of exercises, critiques, demon-
strations and homework assignments. A list of supplies for each
course will be sent with your class confirmation.
1. Botanical Illustration in Pencil I
2. Botany for the Botanical Illustrator
3. Botanical Illustration in Pencil II
4. Composition for Botanical Illustration
5. Color Layering for Colored Pencil
6. Botanical Illustration in Colored Pencil I
7. Perfecting Perspective
8. Botanical Illustration in Colored Pencil II
9. Color Mixing for Artists
10. Botanical Illustration in Pen and Ink I
11. Botanical Illustration in Pen and Ink II
12. Botanical Illustration in Watercolor I
13. Botanical Illustration in Watercolor II
Elective Courses
Elective courses serve a variety of purposes. They are all
designed to increase the student’s knowledge, ability and
Selected lectures at Denver Botanic Gardens can qualify for
elective credits. Participation in one lecture gives one elec-
tive credit hour; you can receive a maximum of 15 credit
hours from these lectures. Café Botanique by Mervi Hjelm-
roos-Koski is a free lecture series open to Botanical Art and
Illustration students, Gardens members, the general public,
academia and artists. There is no admission fee and pre-
registration is not required. The Café Botanique schedule is
posted on the Botanical Illustration blog, or you can receive
further information by joining our mailing list.
Portfolio Review
Upon completion of all course work, you may apply for port-
folio review (held each January and June) by requesting a
transcript from the Registrar and submitting it to the Program
Coordinator when you request your review. Please note: To
receive credit for any course, attendance is required at the
first class and at 80 percent of each course.
The complete portfolio will contain five (5) finished
botanical plates:
1. Graphite
2. Colored Pencil
3. Pen and Ink
4. Water media
5. Artist’s choice: This can be a plate in any of the media
taught within the program or a combination of them.
G UEST WO R K S HOPS
Chinese Brush Painting with Sally Yu Leung
Do not miss this unique opportunity to learn how to paint persim- prerequisites. No refunds for registration cancellations after
mon and cabbage (important symbols in its culture) the Chinese August 25 unless we can fill your seat.
way. Persimmon (Diospyros kaki) is a homophone of “things’ and
“business”, “market” and “thoughts”. The reddish-orange color Course #09CBI150
of its fruit symbolizes joy. The Chinese cabbage (Brassica rapa Fri. - Sun., Sept. 25 – 27, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. (18 hr)
var. glabra) is a symbol for honorable rank, purity and unsullied Instructor: Sally Yu Leung
descent. You will also explore a number of Chinese characters
that make up interesting sayings to go with the persimmon and
cabbage paintings. Writing Chinese characters and painting not
only gives insight into the Chinese culture but can also be a relax-
ing and meditative practice for people of all ages to engage in.

Sally Yu Leung is an independent

curator of Chinese decorative arts,
collector, practicing calligrapher
and also a Commissioner at the
Asian Art Museum in San Fran-
cisco. She has been a teacher of
Chinese calligraphy and brush-
painting at Pixar Animation Stu-
dios for some years now. Fee:
$222 member, $268 non-member.
All students are welcome, with no

INTRODUCTORY C O U R S E S

Art Materials for the Botanical Illustrator Introduction to Drawing

Take the mystery out of materials. I see ten types of erasers –
which one is right for the job? What is the difference between
sable and synthetic? What’s vellum? This information-packed
class will provide you with detailed information about all of
the art materials used throughout the Botanical Illustration
program. From papers to pencils to inks, pens, brushes, and
paints, you’ll learn where and how to find all the right materials
and how they are used. Save time and money by shopping
expertly the first time. Fee: $37 member, $44 non-member. All
students are welcome, with no prerequisites.
Are you new to drawing? If you can write with a pencil, you
can draw with one. Step-by-step, acquire the techniques you
need to draw what you see. Simple exercises train you to
observe objectively and draw accurately. A relaxed pace and
straightforward instruction will open your mind to your own
creative abilities. Build drawing skills to enter the Botanical
Illustration program with confidence. Fee: $185 member, $223
non-member. All students are welcome, with no prerequisites.
Note: If you have had some drawing experience, please go
directly to Pencil I.

Course #09CBI010-1 Weekend Workshop

Sat., Sept. 12, 9 a.m. – noon Course #09CBI020-1
Instructor: Renee Jorgensen Fri. – Sun., Aug. 28 - 30, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Instructor: Renee Jorgensen
Course #09CBI010-2
Fri., Oct. 23, 3 – 6 p.m. Weekend Workshop
Instructor: Renee Jorgensen Course #09CBI020-2
Fri. – Sun., Oct. 16 - 18, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Instructor: Renee Jorgensen
REQUIRED C OU R S ES

Botany for the Botanical Illustrator Course #09CBI100-1

What is the difference between a carpel and a pistil? Where can
I find the stamen? The science of the subjects you draw determines
what you see! Put away your pencils for this enlightening lab class
designed specifically for students of Botanical Illustration. Take
a close look at plant anatomy and learn to recognize botanical
details that will make your drawings more accurate and realistic.
Learn plant morphology through detailed instruction and supporting
visuals. All of your botanical art will improve when you understand
the subjects. Fee: $185 member, $223 non-member. All students
are welcome, with no prerequisites.
Course #09CBI110-1
Mon. – Fri., July 27 - 31, 1 – 4 p.m.
Instructor: Mervi Hjelmroos-Koski
Course #09CBI110-2
Tue., Sept. 8, 15, 22, 29, Oct 6, 6 – 9 p.m.
Instructor: Mervi Hjelmroos-Koski
Composition for Botanical Illustration
The arrangement of lines, shapes and color in artwork is an art form
in itself. The difference between a pleasant picture and amazing
artwork is often found in composition. Using a visual presentation,
this course begins with a study of recognized masters and con-
temporary illustrators. Learn to how build botanical composition
by using compositional elements and principles. Exercises in
creating your own sample compositions gives insight and exper-
tise to enhance all of your future illustrations. Fee: $185 member,
$223 non-member. All students are welcome, with no prerequisites.
Mon. – Fri., July 27 - 31, 9 a.m. – noon
Instructor: Karla Beatty
Course #09CBI100-2
Mon., Sept. 14, 21, 28, Oct. 5, 12, 1 – 4 p.m.
Instructor: Connie Sayas
Weekend Workshop
Course #09CBI100-3
Fri. – Sun., Nov. 20 – 22, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Instructor: Karla Beatty
Botanical Illustration in Pencil II
Simple and classic, pencil drawing is a timeless art form. Expand on
the drawing skills you learned in Pencil I as you reinforce and refine
your knowledge of graphite pencil. Learn additional techniques for
shading, texture, perspective, depth, composition and style. A good
drawing is the basis of botanical illustration in any medium. Group
instruction and individual attention are tailored to help you complete
a finished botanical plate in this subtle and striking medium. Fee:
$185 member, $223 non-member. Prerequisite: Pencil I
Course #09CBI200-1
Mon., Aug. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, 9 a.m. – noon
Instructor: Susan Rubin
Course #09CBI200-2
Wed., Sept. 9, 16, 23, 30, Oct. 7, 6 – 9 p.m.
Instructor: Karla Beatty

Course #09CBI120
Wed., Oct. 21, 28, Nov. 4, 11, 18, 6 – 9 p.m.
Instructor: Marjorie Leggitt

Botanical Illustration in Pencil I

Learn to draw! Begin with a brief history and an overview of
the specific elements of botanical illustration. Learn the skills
of careful observation and realistic drawing in graphite pen-
cil, including line drawing, shading and perspective. Step-by-
step, added techniques help you portray perspective, texture
and detail. This is the entry course for every program student
and the prerequisite for all courses to follow. You’ll emerge
from this class with the tools you need to draw anything. Fee:
$185 member, $223 non-member. All students are welcome,
with no prerequisites. Note: If you have no previous drawing
Eleanor van Bargen, 2008 BI Graduate
experience, consider starting with Introduction to Drawing. Milkweed, Graphite
REQUIRED C OU R S ES

Perfecting Perspective texture and atmospheric perspective. Pen techniques take on

Do you shy away from the complicated plants? Even experienced new meaning as you flesh out a final inked illustration from a
illustrators sometimes struggle with foreshortening and simplify plant of your choice. Fee: $185 member, $223 non-member.
their subjects to eliminate the difficult elements. Learn to see the Prerequisites: Pencil I, Pen and Ink I
correct shape of an ellipse and find the angle of the element
pointing to you, to create the illusion of 3-D depth on a 2-D Course #09CBI310
surface. You’ll work with botanical subjects that demonstrate Thurs., Oct. 22, 29, Nov., 5, 12, 19, 9 a.m. – noon
each aspect of perspective and learn techniques for seeing Instructor: Libby Kyer
and depicting perspective accurately. Complete a final piece
that shows your new understanding of perspective principles.
The class will work entirely in graphite pencil, as the principles Color Layering for Colored Pencil
apply to all art media. Gain confidence in your drafting skills Colored pencil presents a special challenge--mixing color directly on
and improve all of your drawings from this class forward. Fee: your drawing! Learn to use a simple color mixing method, adapted to
$185 member, $223 non-member. Prerequisite: Pencil I the application of colored pencils. Two-, three- and four-color mixing
will get you to the gorgeous greens and luscious lilacs you’ve been
Course #09CBI240-1 missing. Learn to gauge shadow colors for vibrant results. Match
Tue, Sept. 9. 16, 23, 30, Oct 7, 9 a.m. – noon a variety of plant material as you create your own, extensive color
Instructor: Marjorie Leggitt workbook to speed color selection and application for all future
colored pencil drawings. Fee: $185 member, $223 non-member.
Weekend Workshop Prerequisite: Pencil I
Course #09CBI240-2
Fri. – Sun., Nov. 13 – 15, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Weekend Course
Instructor: Marjorie Leggitt Course #09CBI250
Fri. – Sun., Oct. 9 – 11, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Instructor: Susan Rubin
Botanical Illustration in Pen and Ink I
Pen and Ink is at the heart of botanical illustration. Expand
your drawing repertoire as you learn techniques to create line,
form and texture in black and white. ‘Expressive line’ and
‘stipple’ become part of your artistic vocabulary as you prac-
tice this traditional illustration medium with modern and versa-
tile technical pens. Step-by-step instruction, demonstration and
practice will give you the foundation you need to draw any
botanical subject accurately and skillfully. Fee: $185 member,
$223 non-member. Prerequisite: Pencil I

Course #09CBI210-1
Tue., Sept. 8, 15, 22, 29, Oct. 6, 9 a.m. – noon
Instructor: Libby Kyer

Botanical Illustration in Pen and Ink II

Take your pen and ink skills to a new level of sophistication.
Explore the garden’s limitless world of color, textures and
complex botany, and incorporate this information into your
black and white illustrations. Working with both technical pen
and quill, learn advanced techniques to make strokes mimic
the fuzz on a fern, the down of a milkweed pod, the mottled
colors of a variegated begonia. Learn how to layer and
Cynthia Rothbard, 2008 BI Graduate
manipulate lines and stipples to develop a full range of value, Aquilegia coerulea, Colored Pencil
REQUIRED C OU R S ES
Botanical Illustration in Colored Pencil I
M. Hjelmroos-Koski, Instructor
Hibiscus–seedpod, Colored Pencil
Explore this modern medium! You’ve learned to layer colored
pencil, now learn techniques to draw effectively in this medium.
Apply your drawing skills and learn new methods specific to
colored pencils. Techniques include layering, building and
burnishing in color. This versatile, portable medium is perfect for
sketching on location as well as producing studio pieces. Learn
through instruction, demonstration and practice on small studies
of botanical subjects. You’ll be ready to produce a finished plate
in Colored Pencil II. Fee: $185 member, $223 non-member.
Prerequisites: Pencil I and Color Layering for Colored Pencil
Course #09CBI220-1
Wed., Aug. 5, 12, 19, 26, Sept. 2, 9 a.m. – noon
Instructor: Libby Kyer
Course #09CBI220-2
Tue., Oct. 13, 20, 27, Nov. 3, 10, 6 – 9 p.m.
Instructor: Susan Rubin
Botanical Illustration in Colored Pencil II
Take your colored pencil skills to the next level. Walk through the Six
Step process to create a preparatory layered drawing. Learn about
grisaille and techniques to create texture, detail and depth to enhance
your subject. Experiment with different surfaces, blending and shad-
ing. Sample special effects you can achieve with colored pencil on
Mylar, colored and dark grounds. Group instruction and individual
attention help you to become proficient in this versatile medium. Pull
all of your colored pencil skills together to create a finished botanical
plate. Fee: $185 member, $223 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I,
Color Layering for Colored Pencil and Colored Pencil I
Course #09CBI320
Tue., Sept. 8, 15, 22, 29, Oct. 6, 1 – 4 p.m.
Instructor: Susan Rubin
Color Mixing for Artists
The first step to watercolor painting is mixing colors. Learn a
system for combining colors consistently so you can eliminate
frustrating trial and error. Lots of exercises, demonstrations
and discussion will show you how to achieve the broadest
possible spectrum. Learn about paint properties and important
information about choosing pigments. Practice mixing colors
to match a variety of plant material. You’ll gain confidence
and skills to improve all of your color work. Fee: $185 mem-
ber, $223 non-member. All students are welcome, with no
prerequisites.
Course #09CBI103-1
Mon., Sept 14, 21, 28, Oct 5, 12, 6 – 9 p.m.
Instructor: Constance Sayas
Course #09CBI103-2
Mon., Oct. 26, Nov. 2, 9, 16, 23, 9 a.m. – noon
Instructor: Constance Sayas
Botanical Illustration in Watercolor I
Become part of the watercolor botanical tradition. Combine
drawing skills and your knowledge of color mixing as you
discover the delight of putting brush to paper and learn the
specific techniques of transparent watercolor. Instruction, dem-
onstration and practical exercises will guide you through a va-
riety of watercolor techniques: flat and graded washes, high-
lights and dry brush detail. Learn to build washes for depth
of tone and shading, and how to create soft and hard edges.
With these foundational skills you’ll be ready to create a fin-
ished plate in Watercolor II. Fee: $185 member, $223 non-
member. Prerequisites: Pencil I and Color Mixing for Artists
Course #09CBI230-1
Thurs., Sept. 10, 17, 24, Oct. 1, 8, 9 a.m. – noon
Instructor: Constance Sayas
Peggy Turchette, 2008 BI Graduate
DogRose,Watercolor
REQUIRED C OU R S ES

Botanical Illustration in Watercolor II Prepare for the Portfolio Review

Watercolor basics got you
started—now develop your
confidence and personal
style. The emphasis here is
on bringing it all together.
Learn and refine addi-
tional techniques through
instruction, demonstration
and practice with special
attention given to layering,
shading and building form.
Discover brush techniques
and colors that enhance
Cynthia Rothbard, 2008 BI Graduate perspective and depth. Fol-
Winter Treasures, Watercolor
low painting steps through
completion, from broad washes to final detail. Learn how to
fix mistakes and understand why watercolor is a forgiving
medium. You’ll work toward completing a finished plate from a
live specimen in this most traditional of botanical media. Fee:
$145 member, $176 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Color
Mixing for Artists and Watercolor I.
Course #09CBI330
Tue., Oct. 13, 20, 27, Nov. 3, 10, 9 a.m. – noon
Instructor: Karla Beatty
ELECTIVE CO U R S ES
Ready, set, graduate! Gain
insight and ideas for your
portfolio while there’s plen-
ty of time to work toward
your best presentation. From
selecting your portfolio
pieces to expert advice on
how to enhance each one
to its full potential, the en-
tire Botanical Illustration
staff offers support in every
way. One or two instructors
each week will address their
areas of expertise, including Susan Rubin, Instructor
Thermopsis montana, Mixed Media
Graphite,Pen and Ink, Colored
Pencil, Watercolor, Botany, and Lettering, answering all of your
specific questions. Fee: $185 member, $223 non-member.
Open for students applying for the portfolio review in 2010 – all
required courses need to be completed or in progress.
Course #09CBI600-1
Wed., Oct. 21, 28, Nov. 4, 11, 18, 9 a.m. – noon
Instructor: Karla Beatty, Libby Kyer, Susan Rubin, Constance Sayas,
Marjorie Leggitt /Mervi Hjelmroos-Koski each have a 3-hour session.
Course #09CBI600-2
Thur., Oct. 22, 29, Nov. 5, 12, 19, 6 – 9 p.m.
Instructor: Renee Jorgensen / Mervi Hjelmroos-Koski, Susan
Rubin, Marjorie Leggitt, Connie Sayas/Karla Beatty, Libby
Kyer each have a 3-hour session.

Botanical Models Workshop The Business of Art

It is February and a live penstemon is not a prospect. Simple
and effective, botanical models can bridge the gap between
photographs and reality when a living subject is not available.
Photographs provide necessary information, but can seriously
impact the three-dimensionality of the final image. Learn to
make 3-D models to correctly gauge shadows and form when
you can’t see the plant. It’s fun to do, and very helpful to your
finished art. Working in wire, paper and clay, learn to make
models in just one day! Fee: $61 member, $73 nonmember.
All students are welcome, no prerequisites required.
Course #09CBI160
Thurs., Sept. 3, 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
Instructor: Libby Kyer
What’s next? Start with an assessment of your potential, personal
direction and goals as an artist. Learn the skills and create the
materials you’ll need to market yourself as a professional. Work
step-by-step to organize and build a portfolio from the artwork you
have and design an effective business card to present yourself pro-
fessionally. Train your “left-brain” business manager to work with
your “right-brain” artist as you gain information about contracts,
paperwork, legal issues for artists and archiving your artwork.
Visits to a paper store and a printer provide vital information for
launching a professional future. You’ll develop the know-how to
start out in the art world. Fee: $185 member, $223 nonmember.
All students are welcome, with no prerequisites.
Course #09CBI450
Fri. – Sun., Oct. 2 – 4, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Instructor: Marjorie Leggitt
ELECTIVE CO U R S ES

Microscopy Mushrooms with Pen and Ink

Magnificent Molds: Microfungi and the Microscope
Though mold is not immediately associated with beauty, under the
microscope, these remarkable fungi transform into abstract master-
pieces of form, color and texture. Learn to appreciate the benefits
of mold as nature’s waste-management system. Ninety percent of
plants have mycorhizzal (fungi) relationships that keep the environ-
ment in balance. Use the medium of your choice to create your
own botanical plate depicting beautiful, magical mold at its finest!
Class limited to 10 seats. Fee: $185 member, $223 nonmember.
Prerequisites: Pencil I and introductory class of the color medium
of your choice is strongly recommended.
Course #09CBI101
Wed., Aug. 12, 19, 26, 5:30 – 9 p.m. Sept. 2, 5:30 – 8 p.m.
Instructor: Mervi Hjelmroos-Koski
Delicate and detailed, mushrooms lend
themselves perfectly to pen and ink. First,
learn all about the intricacies and anat-
omy of the mushroom and its life cycle
from Colorado’s expert mycologist, Vera
Evanson. Next, explore compositional
possibilities incorporating both wild and
farm-raised mushrooms in various stages
of growth. Learn pen and ink techniques
to portray fungi texture and form of
caps, cups, gills and stipes. Work to-
wards a complete botanical portrait of
these most appealing subjects in their
natural habitats. Fee: $185 member,
$223 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil
Marjorie Leggitt, Instructor
I, Pen and Ink I Mushrooms, Pen and Ink

Course #09CBI211
Seeds and their Pods - Art and the Microscope Tues., Aug. 4, 11, 18, 25, Sept. 1, 9 a.m. – noon
Up close and personal, discover the wonder and diversity of seeds: Instructor: Marjorie Leggitt
tiny packages of life, gift-wrapped exemplars of beauty and func-
tion. Examine the way that seeds are arranged in their pods. Focus
on composition and precision as you study the characteristic form Story Book Illumination
and unique surface features for your species before documenting Snow White and Rose Red,
and drawing every detail. Consider the possibilities for a com- Jack and the Beanstalk, The
positional masterwork in your choice of medium. Your finished Princess and the Pea – many
piece could be the new cover for Index Seminum. Class limited to classic tales have botanical
10 seats. Fee: $185 member, $223 non-member. Prerequisites: content. Here’s your chance
Pencil I and introductory class of the color medium of your choice to illuminate a story of your
is strongly recommended. choice and feature a botani-
cal subject. Research and
Course #09CBI102 illustrate the life cycle of the
Sat., Oct. 24, 31, Nov. 7, plant you select, its country of
9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. origin, and other details from
Instructor: the tale that will help you to
Mervi Hjelmroos-Koski tell a story through illuminated
elements. Use the techniques
Renee Jorgensen, Instructor
Story Book, Mixed Media
of decorating an ornamental
letterform to create a complete
plate that tells a story. Fee: $185 member, $223 nonmember.
Prerequisites: Pencil I, Illumination I (recommended but not necessary)

Course #09CBI103
Mon., Oct 19, 26, Nov. 2, 9, 16, 6 – 9 p.m.
Instructor: Renee Jorgensen

Karen Eberhardt, BI Graduate

Kniphofia seed, Graphite

Eleanor van Bargen, 2008 BI Graduate

Yucca pod, Colored Pencil
ELECTIVE CO U R S ES

The Illustrated Recipe Colored Pencil

Apple Pie? Borscht? Herbed muffins? Choose a favorite recipe
and create an illustration as the perfect companion. See how Colored Pencil III: Five Plates in Five Weeks
other artists have illustrated recipes in cookbooks, old and Take your colored pencil skills
new. Composition is key as you arrange fruits, vegetables, to the next level. Learn profes-
herbs and cooking tools to enhance the text. A demonstration sional methods to create artwork
will show you how an artist might use a computer to approach with speed and accuracy. Tips
layout for a project of this kind, though you will do your work and techniques will allow you
with traditional artist materials. Working in the color medium to streamline your work and
of your choice, create a piece that would be a delicious holi- produce beautiful pieces in
day gift or card. Fee: $185 member, $223 nonmember. Pre- less time without sacrificing
requisites: Pencil I, entry-level color media of choice. detail, definition or nuance.
You’ll produce a finished plate
Course #09CBI351 every week. Fee: $185 member,
Mon., Oct. 19, 26, Nov. 2, 9, 16, 1 – 4 p.m. $223 nonmember. Prerequisites:
Instructor: Marjorie Leggitt Pencil I, Color Layering for
Colored Pencil, Colored Pencil I, Karla Beatty, Instructor
Colored Pencil II GauraLindheimer, Colored Pencil

Course #09CBI510
Wed., Aug. 5, 12, 19, 26, Sept. 2, 1 – 4 p.m.
Instructor: Libby Kyer

Summer Fruit
Peaches, berries, melons and mangoes; summer fruits are ripe and
ready to eat—and draw! See how other artists have portrayed
fruit subjects in the past. Choose your subjects and create a com-
position that honors the tradition of botanical art or moves it into a
whole new realm. Focus first on form, using effective values to give
your subjects weight and depth. Carefully observe the remarkable
colors and textures of fruits, both familiar and exotic. Learn new
tricks and techniques to show saturated color and detailed surface
textures. Finish with a botanical plate of fabulous fruits. Fee: $185
member, $223 nonmember. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Color Layering
for Colored Pencil, Colored Pencil I

Course #09CBI321
Mon., Aug. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, 1 – 4 p.m.
Instructor: Susan Rubin

Mary Clark, 2008 BI Graduate Peggy Turchette, 2008 BI Graduate

Cacoa Tree, Colored Pencil Pears, Watercolor
ELECTIVE CO U R S ES
Drawing on Tradition:
Maria Sibylla Merian Meets Mixed Media
In the late 17th Century, Maria
Sibylla Merian challenged the
rules of Dutch society when she
first divorced her husband and
later took her daughter and
travelled to Surinam to study
and paint the local flora, insects
and butterflies. Though often
remembered for her depictions of
insects, she produced exquisite
paintings, bold in composition
and rich in color. Learn about
Merian’s amazing story and study examples of her work. Practice
and apply special colored pencil and mixed-media techniques to
help you capture her style in your own strong composition and
graphic portrait of a big, beautiful bloom. Fee: $185 member,
$223 nonmember. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Color layering for
Colored Pencil and Colored Pencil I, any Level II class
Course #09CBI451
Mon., Sept. 14, 21, 28, Oct. 5, 12, 9 a.m. - noon
Instructor: Susan Rubin
Leaves in Colored Pencil
Focus on foliage! Leaves often take second billing to blooms, but
here they are the stars. Learn and practice techniques and tricks
for rendering margins, surface texture, venation and color. Work-
ing in graphite and colored pencil, you’ll complete drawings of
fresh and dried leaves, as well as leaves in the context of the
entire plant. Tackle the tough ones, including variegated, highly
textured and translucent leaves. Your new understanding of leaf
form and structure will improve all your illustrations. Fee: $185
member, $223 nonmember. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Color Layering
for Colored Pencil and Colored Pencil I
Course #09CBI324
Thurs., Oct. 22, 29, Nov. 5, 12, 19, 1 – 4 p.m.
Instructor: Susan Rubin
Eleanore von Bargen, 2008 BI Graduate
Quercus gambellii, Colored Pencil
Trees and Texture
Trees are often a second thought as botanical subjects, but
they hold a wealth of beautiful shape, form and texture in
their structures. Journey into the surfaces of trees to discover
their amazing botany and textural variances. Learn to find leaf
scars, budding and branching elements, and other critical bo-
tanical markers. Then, delve into techniques for amazing tex-
tures - smooth, shiny new barks, convoluted, rippled old barks
- all are a challenge and a treasure to illustrate. Design a
plate to show the variety of textures you’ve found in the trees.
Fee: $185 member, $223 nonmember. Prerequisites: Pencil I,
Color Layering for Colored Pencil and Colored Pencil I
Course #09CBI322
Fri., Oct. 23, 30, Nov. 6, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Instructor: Libby Kyer
Water Media
Dazzling Dahlias & Sizzling Zinnias
HOW many petals? Summer’s bright and beautiful blooms are
the subjects here. Learn to portray these bewildering beauties
in your choice of graphite or color. Learn to draft in proper
perspective, select a live specimen and work step-by-step from
line studies through value mapping and on to color analysis
and a complete botanical plate. Demonstration and individual
help will guide you toward a finished work that will help you
remember summer all year long. Fee: $185 member, $223
nonmember. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Perfecting Perspective and
entry-level color media of choice
Course #09CBI350
Tue., Aug. 4, 11, 18, 25,
Sept. 1, 1 – 4 p.m.
Instructor: Marjorie Leggitt
Marjorie Leggitt, Instructor
Persiancarpet & Zinnia, Acrylics
ELECTIVE CO U R S ES

Watercolor Pencils I
It’s dry; it’s wet; it’s mixed media in a single pencil! Discover
the versatility of watercolor pencils. Start with color studies to
explore the qualities of watercolor pencils as they translate
into watercolor. Experiment with graphite pencil and ink as
embellishments as you develop and work on sketches from
your journal. Then put your new skills to use to create a
finished botanical plate in this fresh and fluid medium. Fee:
$185 member, $223 nonmember. Prerequisites: Pencil I,
Color Layering for Colored Pencil
landscapes in watercolor, and create a painting that may be
showcased in an upcoming exhibit, “The Gardens’ Landmarks
in Context”. Fee: $185 member, $223 non-member. Prerequi-
sites: Pencil I, Perfecting Perspective, Color Mixing for Artists,
Watercolor I
Course #09CBI331
Thurs., Aug. 13, 20, 27, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Instructor: Karla Beatty

Course #09CBI340
Wed., Sept. 9, 16, 23, 30, Oct. 7, 1 – 4 p.m. Vegetable Garden: A Watercolor Harvest
Instructor: Renee Jorgensen The end of summer provides
a bounty of vegetable subjects
for painting in watercolor.
Sunflowers in Watercolor Work from the vegetable
Girasole, Tournesol, Girasol, Solros. In garden selecting from a wide
any language, the sunflower is an iconic variety of subjects. First, ex-
image in botanical art. Break away from amine the plants that pro-
tiny, delicate plants and experiment with duce the vegetables. Explore
composition of the big and bold. Study Libby Kyer, Instructor composition to show the
BuffaloGourd, Colored Pencil
the masters to see how other artists have veg-etable subjects in the
Constance Sayas, Instructor
Sunflowers, Watercolor portrayed the subject. Examine the struc- context of the plant, combining vegetables with their stems
ture to understand sunflower anatomy. and leaves. Learn to select the appropriate watercolor
Learn the skills to accurately depict ellipses in perspective and techniques best suited for each vegetable subject. Demonstration
diagram seed patterns in the Fibonacci sequence. Practice and individual guidance will help you produce a finished botanical
mixing challenging yellow hues. From wet-on-wet for the large plate that’s good enough to eat. Fee: $185 member, $223 nonmem-
surfaces to dry brush detail down to the tiny fuzz on the se- ber. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Color Mixing for Artists and Watercolor I
pals, you’ll explore a variety of watercolor techniques. Create
a finished plate that shows your bold side, and shows off a set Course #09CBI338
of new skills. Fee: $185 member, $223 nonmember. Prerequi- Thurs., Sept. 10, 17, 24, Oct. 1, 8, 1 – 4 p.m.
sites: Pencil I, Color Mixing for Artists and Watercolor I Instructor: Constance Sayas

Course #09CBI336
Fri., Sept. 4, 11, 18, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Instructor: Constance Sayas

Landmarks and Landscapes

at Denver Botanic Gardens
Expand your view beyond the single plant subject. The Gardens
boasts examples of famous landscape architects and garden
designers such as Saco De Boer, Victor Hornbein and Garrett
Eckbo. Learn about their designs as well as basic essentials of
drawing and painting landscapes. Combine classroom instruction
with practice out in the gardens. Explore both linear and
atmospheric perspective as you focus on structures and the plants Annie Reiser, 2008 BI Graduate
surrounding them. Learn techniques to portray architecture and Rhubarb, Colored Pencil
ELECTIVE CO U R S ES
Jurassic Flora
Your journey to the Jurassic starts here: Cycad, Gingko,
Metasequoia. Ferns predate most other plant species on earth
and the Conservatory is home to specimens of the varieties that
continue to thrive today. Illustrated for over 1500 years, their
delicate structures and textures are fascinating to study and a
pleasure to paint. Learn about ancient flora from a Gardens
expert and study the morphology of these remarkable species,
focusing on the Jurassic period and early development of plant
species. Your finished plate will document the past and present
of our flora. Fee: $185 member, $223 nonmember. Prerequi-
sites: Pencil I, Color Mixing for Artists, Watercolor I
Course #09CBI337
Tue., Oct 13, 20, 27, Nov. 3, 10, 1 – 4 p.m.
Instructor: Karla Beatty
REG ISTRATI ON I NF O R MATI O N
Five Easy Ways to Register
1. By Telephone: 720-865-3580
2. By Fax: 720-865-3685 (24 HOURS)
3. In Person: Visit the Education Office at the Gardens,
1005 York Street
9 a.m. – 4 p.m., Monday – Friday
4. By Mail: Attention: Registration Coordinator,
909 York Street, Denver, CO 80206
5. Online: www.botanicgardens.org
Refund and Cancellation Policy:
Refund requests must be received 3 business days before the
start of the program. Please note that some programs may
have earlier deadlines: these will be listed in the course
description. The registration fee will be refunded, but with a
10 percent processing fee (up to $10). A refund is issued in
the form of a credit on file to be used towards a future class, a
check or a credit to the credit card used to register. Less than
3 business days before the program starts, registration fees
are not transferrable or refundable. There will be no refund
for no-shows.
Autumn’s Native Plants
Some of the most interesting and different paintings and illustra-
tions portray the world of subtle colors and textures found in re-
sidual floral structures discovered in the late season. Summer’s
brightest blooms have passed, and our focus turns to dried leaves,
winter twigs, brittle seed heads and a palette of beautiful browns,
golds and blues. These subjects stay still as you work for weeks
but present specific challenges. This class concentrates on com-
position, drawing and perspective skills and close observation of
color, pattern and texture as students develop a Fall-themed color
piece that’s perfect for a winter exhibition. Fee: $185 member,
$223 nonmember. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Color Mixing for Artists
and Watercolor I or Transparent Acrylics
Course #09CBI352
Tue., Oct 21, 28, Nov. 4, 11, 18, 1 – 4 p.m.
Instructor: Marjorie Leggitt
After Course has Commenced:
As all requirements have been prepared in expectation of your
attendance, no refunds are possible. Instructors have no authority
to grant or promise refunds. In the event of family emergency or
because of inclement weather circumstances, the student can later
complete the course by taking the missed classes from the same
instructor and notifying the instructor 2 weeks before the course
starts. If 60-80 percent of the course is missed because of the family
emergency or the inclement weather circumstances, the course can
be re-taken from any instructor in that media if space is available.
These policies apply to all registrations in the Botanical Art and
Illustration Program. Selected courses have additional cancella-
tion and refund requirements printed with the course description.
Denver Botanic Gardens regrets that it cannot make exceptions.
Certificate Credit Requirements
for Individual Courses:
Attendance is required at the first class for all courses. In order
to receive credit, 80 percent of a course must be attended (at
least 12 hours of a 15-hour course).
CONTINU IN G EDUC AT I ON R E G I S TR ATI O N

Name

Address

City State Zip

Evening Phone Work Phone

E-Mail

Course Title Date Course # Fee Qty Total

TOTAL AMOUNT DUE $

Denver Botanic Gardens Member ID #

Payment Method Cash Check MasterCard American Express Visa

Card # Exp Date

Signature
Please note: Walk-in registrants will be charged a $10 late registration fee.

Please mail with check or credit card information to

Registrar, Denver Botanic Gardens

909 York Street
Denver, CO 80206

Please see waiver and release form and complete

class information (including our cancellation policy)
on your class acknowledgement form. 10th & York Street www.botanicgardens.org