2008 SUMMER AND 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 amateur. 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 Illustration, Art Materials for the Botanical
Illustrator and Introduction 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.

Required Courses Café Botanique – Science and Art Lecture Series

This free lecture series is open to Botanical Art and

The following 13 courses are required if you wish to
receive a Certificate in Botanical Art and Illustration. The
recommended 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, demonstrations 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 (required for
Graduation beginning from Jan. 1, 2009)
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
Illustration students, as well as to Gardens members, the
general public, academia and artists.
There is no admission fee and pre-registration is not
required. Participation in one lecture gives 1 elective
credit hour; you can receive a maximum of 15 credit
hours from these lectures. The program is posted in
Classroom C and on the blog, or you can receive
information by phone at 720-865-3580.
Portfolio Review
Upon completion of all course work, you may apply for
portfolio 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. Watermedia
5. Artist’s choice: This can be a plate in any of the
media taught within the program or a combination
of them.

Elective Courses serve a variety of purposes. They are all

designed to increase the student’s knowledge, ability and
 GUEST WORKSHOPS

Chinese Flower Painting

The Chinese flowering chrysanthemum is a symbol
of autumn and longevity -- it blooms when most
flowers wither under the onslaught of frost and icy
winds. Bamboo exemplifies integrity for it bends in
the storm but does not break. In addition, its straight
exterior and hollow culm, symbolizes humility and
fidelity. In this class you learn to paint
chrysanthemum and bamboo the Chinese way. You
will also explore a number of Chinese characters that
make up interesting sayings to go with the bamboo
and chrysanthemum paintings. Writing Chinese
characters not only gives insight into Chinese culture
but can also be a relaxing 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 Francisco. She has been a teacher of Chinese
calligraphy and brush-painting at Pixar University
for some years now. Do not miss this unique
opportunity. Fee: $220 member, $264 non-member.
All students are welcome, with no prerequisites.
Course#08CBI570
Fri., Sat., Sun., Sept. 5, 6, 7, 9a.m. – 4 p.m. (18 hr)
Instructor: Sally Yu Leung, San Francisco, CA

Mushrooms – Master Class Workshop with

Alexander Viazmensky

Hunting mushrooms is a national pastime in Russia,

and fungi is the subject of the botanical artwork by
Alexander Viazmensky. His paintings are included
in several important collections, such as the Hunt
Institute of Botanical Documentation, the
Millesgården Museum in Stockholm, the
Minneapolis Institute of Arts, the Lindley Library in
London, and the Dr. Shirley Sherwood Collection.
This workshop will focus on learning techniques
used by Sasha to create his unique paintings. He
teaches by demonstration. Sasha lives in St.
Petersburg, Russia, so don't miss the opportunity to
learn from this visiting master artist. Fee: $220
member, $264 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I,
Color Mixing for Artists, Watercolor I.
Course #08CBI580
Fri.- Sun., Nov 7 - 9, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. (18 hr)
Instructor: Alexander Viazmensky, St Petersburg,
Russia
(© Alexander Viazmensky)
 INTRODUCTORY COURSES
Art Materials for the Botanical Illustrator –
Orientation to the Program
Take the mystery out of materials. What is the
difference between sable and synthetic? What’s
vellum or bristol? Which eraser is best for the job?
Should I take Pen and Ink before Colored Pencil?
When should I take botany? This information-
packed class will provide you with detailed
information about all of the courses and art materials
used throughout the Botanical Illustration program.
From papers to pencils to inks, pens, brushes and
paints, you’ll learn where to find all the right
materials and how they are used. Save time and
money by shopping expertly the first time. Fee: $39
member, $44 non-member. All students are
welcome, with no prerequisites.
Course #08CBI410-1
Sat., July 12, 9 a.m. -noon.
Instructor: Renee Jorgensen
Course #08CBI410-2
Fri., Oct. 3, 9a.m. – noon
REQUIRED COURSES
Botany for the Botanical Illustrator
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. In this
course, designed specifically for students of
Botanical Illustration, you’ll take a closer 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, hands-on experience and
supporting visuals. All of your botanical illustration
work improves when you understand the subjects.
Fee $183 member, $220 nonmember. All students
are welcome, with no prerequisites.
Course #08CBI240-1
Mon.-Wed., July 28-30, 1-5 p.m., Thurs., July 31, 1-
4 p.m.
Instructor: Mervi Hjelmroos-Koski
Course #08CBI240-2
Tue., Sep. 30, Oct. 7, 14, 21, 28, 6-9 p.m.
Instructor: Mervi Hjelmroos-Koski
Botanical Illustration in Pencil I
Learn to draw what you see. Begin with a brief
history and an overview of the specific elements of
Instructor: Renee Jorgensen
Introduction to Drawing
Start at the very beginning. Whether you’ve had no
experience with drawing or have forgotten what you
learned way back when, this is the class for you.
Learn drawing basics step-by-step in this gently
paced class. Carefully explained demonstrations,
simple exercises and helpful critiques will show you
how to draw what you see. Build drawing skills to
enter the Botanical Illustration curriculum with
confidence. Fee: $183 member, $220 non-member.
All students are welcome, with no prerequisites.
Course #08CBI110-1 Weekend Workshop
Fri. – Sun., July 18-20, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Instructor: Renee Jorgensen
Course #08CBI110-2 Weekend Workshop
Fri. – Sun., Oct 10-12, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Instructor: Karla Beatty
botanical illustration. Learn the skills of careful
observation and realistic drawing in graphite pencil,
including line drawing, shading and perspective.
Step-by-step, added techniques help you portray
foreshortening, texture and detail. This is the entry
course for every program student and the
prerequisite for all courses to follow. Whether
you’re refreshing old skills or learning for the first
time, you’ll emerge from this class with the tools
you need to draw anything. Fee: $183 member, $220
non-member. All students are welcome, with no
prerequisites.
Course #08CBI200-1
Mon.- Fri., July 28-Aug 1, 9 a.m.-noon
Instructor: Karla Beatty
Course #08CBI200-2
Mon., Sept. 22, 29, Oct., 6, 13, 20, 1 – 4 p.m.
Instructor: Libby Kyer
Course #08CBI200-3 Weekend Workshop
Fri.-Sun., Oct 31- Nov. 2, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Instructor: Marjorie Leggitt
Botanical Illustration in Pencil II
Explore the depth and subtlety of pencil work.
Expand on the drawing skills you learned in Pencil I
as you reinforce and refine your knowledge of
graphite pencil. Try new materials, including
charcoal pencil and graphite carbon dust. Learn
additional techniques for shading, texture,
perspective, depth, composition and style. Group
instruction and individual attention are tailored to
help you master a finished botanical plate. Fee: $183
member, $220 non-member. Prerequisite: Pencil I
Course #08CBI300
Tue., Aug. 26, Sept. 2, 9, 16, 23, 6 - 9 p.m.
Instructor: Karla Beatty
Composition for Botanical Illustration
The difference between a “nice” picture and
“fabulous” artwork is often found in composition.
The arrangement of elements in artwork is an art
form in itself. A slide presentation starts you off
with principles of composition and demonstrates the
use of composition throughout the history of art.
Through step-by-step guidance, you will learn the
elements and principles of composition. Examine
and diagram preexisting art works, and you will
discover how to develop and arrange the lines,
shapes and colors of your own art. Creating your
own compositions gives you insight and expertise to
enhance all of your future illustrations. Fee: $183
member, $220 non-member. All students are
welcome, with no prerequisites.
Course #08CBI220-1
Thur., Aug 7, 14, 21, Mon., Sept. 8, 15, 1-4 p.m.
Instructor: Marjorie Leggitt
Course #08CBI220-2
Thurs., Oct. 16, 23, Nov. 6, 13, 20, 6 – 9 p.m.
Instructor: Marjorie Leggitt
Perfecting Perspective (required for Graduation
beginning from Jan. 1, 2009)
Do you shy away from the complicated plants? Even
experienced illustrators sometimes struggle with
foreshortening and simplify their subjects to
eliminate the difficult parts. Learn the techniques
and tricks
for seeing and depicting perspective accurately.
Whether determining the correct shape of an ellipse
or finding the angle of the element pointing to you,
you’ll work with botanical subjects that demonstrate
each aspect of perspective. The class will work
entirely in graphite pencil, as the principles apply to
all other media. Gain confidence in your drafting
skills and improve your drawings from this class
forward. Fee: $183 member, $220 non-member.
Prerequisite: Pencil I
Course#08CBI630-1 Weekend Workshop
Fri.- Sun., Aug. 8 -10, 9a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Instructor: Marjorie Leggitt
Course #08CBI630-2
Tue., Sep. 30, Oct. 7, 14, 21, 28, 9 a.m. - noon
Instructor: Marjorie Leggitt
Botanical Illustration in Pen and Ink I
Pen and ink is expressive and effective, good for
impressive sketching as well as exquisite finished
drawings. 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
practice this traditional illustration medium with
modern and versatile 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: $183 member,
$220 non-member. Prerequisite: Pencil I
Course #08CBI250
Wed., July 30, Aug., 6, 13, 20, 27, 6-9 p.m.
Instructor: Marjorie Leggitt
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 pens, learn advanced techniques to make
strokes that mimic the fuzz on a fern, the down of a
milkweed pod or the mottled colors of a variegated
begonia. Learn how to layer and manipulate lines
and stipples to develop a full range of value, texture
and atmospheric perspective. Pen techniques take on
new meaning as you flesh out a final inked
illustration from a plant of your choice. Fee: $183
member, $220 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I,
Pen and Ink I
Course #08CBI320
Thurs., Sept. 11, 18, 25, Oct. 2, 9, 9 a.m. - noon
Instructor: Libby Kyer
Color Layering for Colored Pencil
It’s not the same as water media – you have to mix
color directly on your drawing! Learn to use the
same simple color-mixing method, adapted to the
application of colored pencils. Two-, three- and
four-color mixing will get you to the gorgeous
greens and luscious lilacs you’ve been missing.
Learn to gauge shadow colors for vibrant results.
Layering, blending and burnishing techniques will
help you create your own extensive color workbook
to speed color selection and accuracy for all future
colored pencil drawings. Fee: $183 member, $220
non-member. Prerequisite: Pencil I.
Course #08CBI400-1
Tue., Aug. 5, 12, 19, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Instructor: Susan Rubin
Course #08CBI400-2
Wed., Nov. 5, 12, 19, 26, Dec. 3, 1-4 p.m.
Instructor: Susan Rubin
Botanical Illustration in Colored Pencil I
Love to draw, but dreaming in color? Colored
pencils to the rescue! Apply your drawing skills
from graphite pencil and learn new methods specific
to colored pencils. Techniques include color mixing,
layering, building and burnishing in color. Develop
skills as you learn through instruction,
demonstration and practice on small studies of
botanical subjects. This versatile, portable medium is
perfect for sketching on location as well as
producing studio pieces. Fee: $183 member, $220
non-member. Pre-requisite: Pencil I and Color
Layering for Colored Pencil.
Course #08CBI230
Mon., Sept. 22, 29, Oct. 6, 12, 20, 9 a.m. – noon..
Instructor: Libby Kyer
Botanical Illustration in Colored Pencil II
You’ve learned the basic colored pencil skills, now
put them to use! New materials and techniques allow
you to experiment with different surfaces, blending
and shading. See the beautiful effects you can
achieve with colored pencil on Mylar, colored and
dark grounds. Learn to create texture and detail to
enhance your drawings. We’ll walk through a step-
by-step process to create a layered drawing and
develop a finished botanical plate in colored pencil.
Fee: $183 member, $220 non-member.
Prerequisites: Pencil I, Color Layering for Colored
Pencil, Colored Pencil I.
Course #08CBI310
Wed., Sept. 24, Oct. 1, 8, 15, 22, 1-4 p.m.
Instructor: Susan Rubin
Color Mixing for Artists
Mixed up about color? 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:
$183 member, $220 non-member. All students are
welcome, with no prerequisites.
Course #08CBI210
Mon., Sept. 22, 29, Oct. 6, 13, 20, 6-9 p.m.
Instructor: Connie Sayas
Botanical Illustration in Watercolor I
Be part of the watercolor botanical tradition.
Combine your knowledge of color mixing with your
drawing skills as you begin to master the specific
techniques of transparent watercolor. Instruction,
demonstration and practical exercises will guide you
through the steps of working in the traditional dry-
brush technique. Learn to build washes for depth of
tone and shading, create soft and hard edges, and
avoid common watercolor mistakes. You’ll be ready
to create a finished plate in Watercolor II. Fee: $183
member, $220 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I,
Color Mixing for Artists.
Course #08CBI260
Thurs., Oct. 16, 23, November 6, 13, 20, 1-4 p.m.
Instructor: Karla Beatty
Botanical Illustration in Watercolor II
There’s more to watercolor than mixing color and
managing the brushes. Learn additional techniques
through instruction, demonstration and practice as
you develop your confidence and personal style.
Emphasis here is on bringing it all together: brush-
on skills, color mixing and composition. You’ll
work toward completing a finished plate from a live
specimen in this most traditional of botanical media.
Fee: $183 member, $220 non-member.
Prerequisites: Pencil I, Color Mixing for Artists,
Watercolor I
Course #08CBI330-1
Thur., Aug 7, 14, 21, 28, Sept. 4, 9 a.m. – noon
Instructor: Karla Beatty
Course #08CBI330-2
Mon., Oct 27, Nov. 3, 10, 17, 24, 6 – 9 p.m.
Instructor: Connie Sayas
 ELECTIVES
TECHNIQUES
Paper, Paper
Reading, writing, wrapping, drawing, organizing:
piles of paper pass through our fingers every day.
Learn about the fascinating history and evolution of
papers, both Eastern and Western, and the materials
that make the paper you long to have. From fibers
and additives to dyes and finishes, you’ll see what
makes up the varied textures and types of paper.
Experiment hands-on to see how different papers
work with artistic media, how to determine the
archival quality of papers, and how to select the
perfect paper for your project. You’ll leave with a
greater understanding of papers and a sample packet
of papers you’ll stitch together yourself. Fee $39
member, $44 nonmember. All students are welcome,
with no prerequisites.
Course #08CBI660
Sat., July 12, 1-4 p.m.
Instructor: Patricia Branstead, Kozo Fine Art
Materials/Papermaking
Labeling, Botanical Latin, Common names
“Should I write the name of the subject in Latin or
should I use the common name? What do I write in
Italics? Where do I capitalize letters, and how do I
know that I’m following the International Code of
Botanical Nomenclature?” This 3-hour workshop
covers everything you need to know about labeling
your beautiful plate correctly and getting it ready to
go for the show. Fee $39 member, $44 nonmember.
All students are welcome, with no prerequisites.
Course #08CBI120
Saturday, July 19, 9 a.m. – noon
Instructor: Mervi Hjelmroos-Koski
Framing Botanical Illustration
The student show is coming in September; get your
work off of the drawing board and onto the wall!
This 1-day workshop covers the options that will
help you to present your art to its best advantage.
Learn the steps to the conservation techniques that
preserve your pieces in an acid-free environment.
We’ll cover all the details of framing materials,
styles and embellishments, and you’ll frame a small
piece to practice. Whether you decide to frame it
yourself or work with a professional, you’ll be more
confident in your framing decisions. Fee: $63
member, $69 non-member. All students are
welcome, with no prerequisites.
Course #08CBI150
Sat., Aug. 2, 9 a.m.- 2:30 p.m.
Instructor: Susan Rubin
Creative Hand Lettering II
Come experiment with the beautiful art of
calligraphic lettering! Whether you are labeling your
botanical artwork, taking notes in your sketchbook
or even jotting entries into your garden diary, this
wonderful art form adds the final touch. Using the
basic techniques from handlettering/Calligraphy I
you’ll learn new methods and exercise to refine your
skills for both scientific labeling and other creative
uses. Fee: $183 member, $220 non-member.
Prerequisites: Pencil I, Creative Hand Lettering I or
Calligraphy I
Course #08CBI480
Tue., Aug. 26, Sept. 2, 9, 16, 23, 1 – 4 p.m.
Instructor: Renee Jorgensen
(Wikipedia)
Sketching: Art at 75 MPH
Grab your pencils and buckle up! Take a break from
the usual torpid tempo of botanical illustration as
you learn to capture the gist of a subject or scene at a
fun, fast pace. Learn to trust your intuition, see in
new ways, and develop a personal language of
pencil strokes. Train your eye to capture shape and
movement on the fly and quickly translate the
information onto paper. You’ll be surprised to see
how this method of integrating art into your daily
life improves all of your drawings as you learn to
visually “cut to the chase”. Simple materials make
this skill a natural for travel! Fee $183 member,
$220 nonmember. All students are welcome, with no
prerequisites.
Course#08CBI170 Weekend Workshop
Fri.- Sun., Sept. 26-28, 9a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Instructor: Libby Kyer
Hand Made Art Journal
Learn simple and elegant techniques in bookbinding,
to make your own multi-media art journal. With a
beautiful exposed spine binding using the ancient 2-
needle Coptic stitch, you will construct a journal of
folded signatures and a decorative hard cover of
paper or cloth. Further embellishments to
personalize your journal with beads, jewels, feathers,
stamps, quotes, or other materials will entice your
creativity, and finishing time will include journal
dedications and colophons. Fee $110 member, $132
nonmember. All students are welcome, with no
prerequisites.
Course #08CBI130 Weekend Workshop
Fri., Oct. 3, 1-4 p.m., Sat. Oct. 4, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Instructor: Maria Hodkins
Using Photo References Wisely
You need to draw a daffodil, but it’s November and
you forgot to take photos last spring. What do you
do? Learn how to locate other photographic
resources, create your own composite from multiple
images and alter visual information creatively to
come up with a fresh illustration that retains
accuracy without infringing copyrights. Produce a
plate of your own in your choice of media using the
techniques and information you learn. Fee $183
member, $220 nonmember. Prerequisites: Pencil I
and introductory class of the color medium of your
choice is strongly recommended.
Course #08CBI625
Tue., Sep. 30, Oct. 7, 14, 21, 28, 1 – 4 p.m.
Instructor: Marjorie Leggitt
Start to Finish: Botanical Note Cards
Ever wonder what to do with your botanical
drawings and paintings once they’re completed?
Share your art with others! Bring your partially
finished flower portrait to class and learn the process
of creating quality note cards. Discover different
ways to share your artwork, learn about scanning
your botanical image and get your art scanned. Visit
a paper company, tour a printer, and learn about
Giclee prints. Fee $183 member, $220 nonmember.
All students are welcome, with no prerequisites.
Course #08CBI640
Tues., Nov. 4, 11, 18, 25, Dec 2, 1-4 p.m.
Instructor: Marjorie Leggitt
Leaves in Water Color
Lack luster leaves? Learn to identify the important
characteristics of leaves, including color, venation
and surface texture. Through lecture, demonstration
and practice, you’ll acquire techniques that will
allow you to translate them into watercolor. Begin
with individual leaves and complete detailed
illustrations before you move on to placing leaves in
the context of the plant. Your new skills will
enhance your every illustration. Fee $183 member,
$220 nonmember. Prerequisite: Pencil I, Color
Mixing for Artists, Watercolor I.
Course #08CBI140
Wed., Oct 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, 9 a.m. – noon
Instructor: Connie Sayas
Light on Form
Take your drawings from flat to fabulous. The
secret to portraying light and shadow on your
subjects lies in understanding the scientific method
of lighting as it applies to different forms. Beginning
with basic geometric shapes, refine your skills in
showing light and volume on any subject. The class
will work entirely in graphite pencil, as the
principles apply to all other media. As you progress
to fruits and vegetables, leaves, flowers, and
ultimately entire plants with complex combinations
of shapes, you will overcome the obstacles in
creating three-dimensional drawings. Fee $183
member, $220 nonmember. Prerequisite: Pencil I.
Course #08CBI180
Wed.., Oct. 8, 15, 22, Nov. 5, 12, 6 - 9 p.m.
Instructor: Susan Rubin

Ravishing Reds in Watercolor

More orange in the sunlight; violet in the shadows;
pink at the edge? Capturing the ‘right’ red is an (Asclepias, Susan Rubin)
interesting challenge for the illustrator. Build on
your watercolor skills as you learn to mix the red Pencil III: Dazzling Dahlias
hues you need and effectively apply color to create In 1872, a box of Dahlia roots were sent from
value and form. Viewing examples of artworks Mexico to the Netherlands. Just one root survived,
representing successful use of red tones, instructor and Dahlias have been bred ever since to produce
demonstrations, and practical exercises with a thousands of cultivars selected for their bright,
variety of red botanical material will prepare you to stunning flowers. From tiny varieties with blooms as
complete a finished plate from a red-blossomed small as 2" to the majestic Dinner Plate varieties a
specimen. Fee $183 member, $220 nonmember. foot in diameter, Dahlias are bold, beautiful, and a
Prerequisite: Pencil I, Color Mixing for Artists, little baffling. Refining techniques learned in
Watercolor I. Perfecting Perspective, select a live specimen and
Course #08CBI470 work step-by-step from line studies, through value
Mon., Oct. 27, Nov. 3, 10, 17, 24, 1-4 p.m. mapping, and on to a complete botanical plate in
Instructor: Connie Sayas graphite. Fee $183 member, $220 nonmember.
Prerequisites: Pencil I, Pencil II and Perfecting
Perspective.
GRAPHITE Course #08CBI190
Wed. Aug 6, 13, 20, 9a.m.-2:30 p.m.
Instructor: Marjorie Leggitt
Up Close and Personal: Plant Portraits in
Graphite Pencil
Small is sweet, but sometimes big is better! Enjoy a
contemporary take on botanical art as you move in
close to your subject. Choose a favorite plant and
learn the skills to capture its “best side”, and focus
on its best features. Composition considerations will
help you to work on a larger scale. Learn techniques
to draw at actual size and then crop and enlarge your
drawing to emphasize form and drama. Whether the
result is 4 inches square or 18 X 24 inches, you’ll
produce a powerful, modern graphite portrait of your
plant. Fee $183 member, $220 nonmember.
Prerequisite: Pencil I
Course #08CBI430
Thurs., Aug 14, 21, Sept. 4, 11, 18, 6 - 9 p.m.
Instructor: Susan Rubin (Dahlia, Janne Kyttänen)
 PEN & INK
Scratchboard: Luminous Illustration in Ink
Start from scratch! Expand your illustration
repertoire with a new tool in your pen and ink
toolbox. Learn to achieve exquisite line control as
you master the techniques of pulling line out of
darkness with precision scratching tools. You’ll
discover a new confidence with ink and an ability to
work more quickly by both adding and removing ink
from the clayboard base. The beautiful dried or
dormant “fruits of winter” will provide the
inspiration for your finished plate in this inspiring
weekend workshop. Fee $183 member, $220
nonmember. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Pen and Ink I
OR previous experience with Pen and Ink.
Course #08CBI370
Tues., Nov. 4, 11, 18, 25, Dec 2, 6-9 p.m.
Instructor: Libby Kyer
Pen and Ink for Publication: Index Seminum II
Denver Botanic Gardens’ seed exchange publication,
Index Seminum, is distributed worldwide and we are
seeking a new cover illustration for 2009! Choose a
plant from our list and use all of your pen and ink
skills as you learn the specifics of illustration from
herbarium specimens (preserved and dried plants
that provide valuable scientific information). Expand
your knowledge of Gardens resources while you
work with the Horticulture Department, Helen
Fowler Library and Kathryn Kalmbach Herbarium.
With careful instruction and individual attention,
you’ll be able to visually and artistically “revive” the
pressed herbarium specimen and begin a beautiful
botanical plate in pen and ink. Yours may be
selected for the publication! Fee: $183 member,
$220 non-member. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Pen and
Ink I
Course #08CBI380
Tues., Nov. 4, 11, 18, 25, Dec 2, 9 a.m. - noon.
Instructor: Marjorie Leggitt
nonmember. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Color Layering
for Colored Pencil (or Color Mixing for Artists),
Colored Pencil I (or Watercolor I)
Course #08CBI520
Thurs., Sept. 4, 11, 18, 25, Oct. 2, 1-4 p.m.
Instructor: Libby Kyer
COLORED PENCIL
Bright and Bold: Colored Pencil for the
Uninhibited
An abundance of bold color spills from every
container and garden bed. Choose the brightest of
blooms to compose a pleasing plate reflecting the
colors of the season. See how other artists have
handled the challenge of bright hues in combination.
Learn special techniques with solvent and under-
painting to create vibrant color and depth befitting
the subject. Individual guidance and support will see
you through to a finished colored pencil plate you’ll
enjoy long after the plants are put to bed. Fee $183
member, $220 nonmember. Prerequisites: Pencil I,
Color Layering for Colored Pencil, Colored Pencil I.
Course #08CBI620
Mon. Aug 4, 11, 18, 9a.m.-2:30 p.m.
Instructor: Susan Rubin

Urban Nature: Weeds in Mixed Media

“A weed is but an unloved flower” (Ella Wheeler
Wilcox). Though some weeds are dangerously
invasive in our environment, some are unjustly on
the gardener’s hit list. Purslane means a day of
digging to us, but in Europe and Asia is considered a
salad delicacy. We struggle to keep them at bay, but
in Italy, dandelions are cultivated in gardens!
Choose your weedy subject, analyze its best points,
and work in mixed media create a beautiful portrait
of a garden nemesis. Who knows, you might just
learn to love the weeds! Fee $183 member, $220
(Maga, S. Rubin)
Native Earth: Plants of the Americas in Colored
Pencil
Pay homage to the bounty of summer! Begin with a
tour by a Gardens expert and learn about the “Three
Sisters”, the Native American triad of squash, beans
and corn that play a crucial role in nutrition, lore and
magic. Start with field journaling to capture the
delicate tendrils of beans, the shaggy elegance of
corn husks, and the wonderful colors of squash.
Class instruction will help you to produce a colored
pencil plate that that tells a story. Fee $183 member,
$220 nonmember. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Color
Layering for Colored Pencil, Colored Pencil I
Course #08CBI450
Wed., Sept. 3, 10, 17, 9a.m.-2:30 p.m.
Instructor: Libby Kyer
(© Libby Kyer)
WATER COLOR AND/OR GRAPHITE
Ancient Herbs in Graphite and/or Watercolor
Ancient herbs are modern today. Olive, Garlic and
Basil are among the plants important for culinary,
medicinal and cult purposes in classical antiquity,
and they probably found their way into your last
marinara sauce! Learn about ancient practices and
many varied uses of herbs in Greek and Roman
kitchen gardens. Special attention to composition
and careful rendering will guide you to create an
herbal portrait in your choice graphite and/or
watercolor. Fee $183 member, $220 nonmember.
Prerequisites: Pencil I, (and Color Mixing for Artists
and Watercolor I).
Course #08WBI660
Tue., Aug. 26, Sept. 2, 9, 16, 23, 9a.m.-noon
Instructor: Karla Beatty
(Tagetes, Kew Gardens – artist unknown)
Ferns in Graphite and/or Watercolor
Ferns predate most other plant species on earth.
Illustrated for over 1500 years, their delicate
structures and textures are fascinating to study and a
pleasure to paint. Learn about ferns from a Gardens
expert and study the morphology of this remarkable
species, focusing on the Jurassic period and early
development of plant species. Create your own
detailed botanical plate in your choice of graphite
and/or watercolor. Fee $183 member, $220
nonmember. Prerequisites: Pencil I, (and Color
Mixing for Artists and Watercolor I).
Course #08CBI440
Thurs., Oct. 16, 23, November 6, 13, 20, 9 a.m. -
noon.
Instructor: Karla Beatty
WATER COLOR
Composite Blooms in Watercolor
Sunflowers, daisies, asters and more! These flowers
are actually combinations of multiple blossoms.
Learn composite anatomy and study the bloom’s
structure in terms of perspective, ellipses, and the
Fibonacci sequence to place spiral elements. Start
your project with careful observation and sketching,
then turn your drawing into a colorful watercolor
portrait that accurately and beautifully portrays your
plant. Fee $183 member, $220 nonmember.
Prerequisites: Pencil I, Color Mixing for Artists and
Watercolor I.
Course #08CBI605
Fri., Aug 15, 22, 29, 9a.m.-2:30 p.m.
Instructor: Connie Sayas
 $183 member, $220 nonmember. Prerequisite:
Pencil I
Course #08CBI610
Tues., Sept. 3, 10, 17, 24, Oct. 1, 6-9 p.m.
Instructor: Renee Jorgensen

(© C. Sayas)

Autumn Harvest in Watercolor

Fall brings corn, gourds and squash; all sculptural
studies in form and color. As autumn approaches,
gardens produce superb botanical subjects. Learn Drawing on Tradition: The Art of Early Seed
how other botanical artists have depicted these fall Catalogues
vegetables. Examine the plants that produce the In 1730 Robert Furber, an English nurseryman,
harvest and explore color, form and composition published an unusual flower catalogue. On each of
combining vegetables with their stems and leaves. its twelve pages he illustrated graceful arrangements
Work in watercolor to create a finished botanical of flowers grouped according to the month in which
plate that’s good enough to eat. Fee $183 member, they bloom. Study the style of the illustrations and
$220 nonmember. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Color learn to combine a group of flowers into a single
Mixing for Artists and Watercolor I. composition. Practice the techniques needed to
Course #08CBI605 achieve the look of the old etchings using a
Wed., Nov. 5, 12, 19, 26, Dec. 3, 9 a.m. - noon combination of graphite and colored pencil. Create
Instructor: Connie Sayas a small plate with your own interpretation of a
season’s blooms. Fee $183 member, $220
nonmember. Prerequisites: Pencil I, Color Layering
for Colored Pencil, Colored Pencil I
DRAWING IN TRADITION Course #08CBI350
Mon., Oct. 27, Nov. 3, 10, 17, 24, 9 a.m. - noon.
Botanical Illumination in the Round: The Instructor: Susan Rubin
Mandala
In Sanskrit, Mandala means circle, and represents
the wholeness of the individual in connection to the
infinite. Illumination is a decorated letterform
surrounded by symbolic flowers, and sprouting plant
forms that create frame-like borders. Combine these
two concepts and the result is a Medieval
interpretation of an eastern ideal. Learn or refine all
of the basic concepts of illumination in ink and
gouache and study the symbolism of the images you
choose. Whether you are new to Illumination class
or looking for a new context for the skills you
learned in a previous class, you’ll enjoy developing
and completing your own meaningful mandala. Fee
 MICROSCOPY
Magnificent Molds: Microfungi and the
Microscope
Though mold is not immediately associated with
beauty, under the microscope, these remarkable
fungi transform into abstract masterpieces 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 environment in balance.
Use the medium of your choice to create your own
botanical plate depicting beautiful, magical mold at
its finest! Fee $183 member, $220 nonmember.
Prerequisites: Pencil I and introductory class of the
color medium of your choice is strongly
recommended.
Course #08CBI540 Weekend Workshop
Fri., Sat., Sun., Oct 17, 18, 19, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Instructor: Mervi Hjelmroos-Koski
(Aspergillus flavus, Dennis Kunkel Microscopy)
SIX EASY WAYS TO REGISTER
1. BY TELEPHONE: 720-865-3580
2. BY FAX: 720-865-3685 (24 HOURS)
3. IN PERSON: 9 A.M. – 4 P.M., MONDAY – FRIDAY, 1005 YORK STREET, IN THE CONTINUING
EDUCATION OFFICE
4. BY MAIL: ATTENTION: REGISTRATION COORDINATOR, 909 YORK STREET, DENVER, CO
80206
5. ONLINE: WWW.BOTANICGARDENS.ORG
6. E-MAIL: REGISTRAR@BOTANICGARDENS.ORG
Harvest of Seeds - Art and the Microscope
Up close and personal, discover the wonder and
diversity of native seeds: tiny, gift-wrapped
packages of life, and exemplars of beauty and
function. Focus on composition and precision as you
study the characteristic form and unique surface
features for your species before documenting and
drawing every detail. Consider the possibilities for a
compositional masterwork in your choice of
medium. Your finished piece may be the new cover
for Index Seminum 2009. Microscopy class, limited
to 10 seats. Fee: $183 member, $220 non-member.
Prerequisites: Pencil I and introductory class of the
color medium of your choice is strongly
recommended.
Course #08CBI490 Weekend Workshop
Fri., Sat., Sun., Nov 21, 22, 23, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Instructor: Mervi Hjelmroos-Koski
(Dandelion seeds by Dee Berger)
Refund and cancellation policy:
Denver Botanic Gardens will refund 100% of the BI-course tuition if the registrar is contacted at least three working days (Monday-
Friday) prior to the class start date.

For cancellations received after the cut off date but before the commencement of the course, requests for refunds are assessed on a case-to-
case basis. There will be no refund for no-shows.

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 registrar 2 weeks before the course start. If 60-80% 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.

This reservation and cancellation policy applies to all course registrations in the Botanical Art and Illustration Program at Denver
Botanic Gardens that have been confirmed by the registrar.
Denver Botanic Gardens regrets that it cannot make exceptions to this reservation and cancellation policy for any reason.

Selected courses have additional cancellation and refund requirements printed with the course description.

Certificate credit requirements for individual courses:

Attendance is required at the first class for all courses. In order to receive credit, 80 % of a course must be attended (at least 12 hours of a
15-hour course). If less than 60% of the course is missed because of the family emergency or inclement weather circumstances, the course
can be completed by attending to the missed classes from the same instructor whenever possible, if space is available.