Botanical Art, courtesy of Ruth Wharrier
School of Botanical Art
Grow your artistic skills with our AIM endorsed Botanical Art courses and seasonal sketchbook workshops - led by renowned botanical artist and illustrator Ruth Wharrier and held at Carlton Marshes near Lowestoft.
Our School of Botanical Art programme offers unique opportunities to study botanical art and illustration within the beautiful setting of our Carlton Marshes nature reserve with experienced botanical artist and illustrator Ruth Wharrier.
The programme comprises of Botanical Art courses at Levels 2 and 3 - quality-endorsed by awarding body AIM Qualifications - along with seasonal leisure learning workshops. For those who complete Level 3 and would like to advance further, we can run a bespoke Level 4 course.
Ruth Wharrier, School of Botanical Art Tutor
Ruth Wharrier
Ruth was born in the North East of England where she originally studied English at Newcastle University before training to become a teacher at Durham University. After a few years in adult and primary education, she returned to her first love and pursued a career in Natural History painting, illustration, and tuition.
In 2008, she studied for and received the prestigious Diploma in Botanical Illustration from the Chelsea Physic Garden in London. Since then, Ruth has worked as a freelance Botanical and Natural History illustrator, creating works in watercolour, gouache, etching, and pen & ink from her studio in Pakefield.
Since 2011, Ruth has led the School of Botanical Art programme at Suffolk Wildlife Trust.
School of Botanical Art course with Ruth Wharrier
Level 2 Botanical Drawing
This is an entry level course aimed at people with some drawing experience who want to begin or develop their journey as a botanical artist. The 5-day course takes place over three months and comprises of six modules:
- Introduction: Creating Tone & Form
- Introduction: Observational Drawing
- Investigating Structure: Key Shapes Part 1
- Investigating Structure: Key Shapes Part 2
- Introducing Colour: Graphite/Watercolour
- Introducing Colour: Pen & Ink/Watercolour
Course fee: £685
Parrot Tulip by Ruth Wharrier
Level 3 Botanical Drawing
This advanced course is designed to develop the drawing and painting skills of artist and illustrators, along with a wider understanding of plant ecology and the natural environment. Course participants will receive 12 days of guided learning over a 6-month period, with focus on the following areas of development:
- Botanical Drawing & Painting Techniques
- Composition & Aesthetics
- Botany & Field Skills
- Historical Context
Course fee: £1,500
Upcoming courses & workshops
If you would like to register your interest for future courses or workshops, or have any questions, simply email us: teamwilder@suffolkwildlifetrust.org
