I will stick around a little longer and see if there are any more questions or comments. Otherwise, thanks for the interaction. It has been fun.

You know how you go through periods of time where you chase down every botanical art class known to man and then, after a year or two of this, you figure out you need to sit still to apply all that you’ve learned?

Where are you now? Are you actively absorbing as much information as you can, or are you quietly applying what you have learned so far?

Is your interest in online botanical art classes rooted in the active pursuit of more knowledge or the need to fine-tune what you already know in the peace and quiet of your own home/studio?

Personally, I feel capable of drawing or painting anything I set my mind to. For me botanical art has started to be about sharing this knowledge with others. I am still figuring out ways to do this. Yesterday I was an artist at a garden tour. I sat and painted while people watched and toured the garden of a lovely house in Minneapolis. I enjoyed the interaction of talking about what is beautiful and inspirational to people and to talk about botanical art and how it can capture these things. The best advice I can give to painters is to love what you do. If you are not enjoying it, stop, paint something else or go bake bread. Love what you do and your voice will come through the work…and then there is technique. :O)

Joseph Barnes
Are you kidding? I would, in a heartbeat! I need all the guidance I can get. :o)
July 15 at 10:13am

Laura Gould
To make it more one on one perhaps Skype :)
July 9 at 5:36am

Tishia St
Great question. If it were me, I would do some research and find out what the college or museum docent training requires. I would follow that format…Syllabus that’s what I’m thinking.
July 8 at 10:47pm

Laura Gould
Self teaching can take you in wonderful directions…finding a subject, drawing and doing your own research can be very fulfilling. Following sources for natural science illustration like The Guild of Natural Science Illustrators. If you are able to find a mentor who will give you guidance is always good….again…if you’re miles from nowhere … connect with others through a sharing network like Facebook where people are generous with their process and helpful to others :) web sites: http://www.scientificillustrator.com/ new face book group still tiny but has some good people :) http://www.facebook.com/pages/Scientific-Illustrations/405737497852?ref=ts OK…that’s all I’ve got :)
July 9 at 5:54am

DebandKen Crawford
Laura, you are correct. I think if a person really wants to pursue this, the basis watercolor and drawing classes can be found most anywhere. Then the internet for the specifics of botanical illustration. Facebook groups have not only been very educational for me, but more importantly has kept me focused, (not to mention the wonderful friendships with many talented artists). Every time there is a little tidbidt of information, tips, etc. in a conversation, I take notes. : )
July 9 at 6:25am

Mindy Lighthipe
I am in the process of developing an online mentoring program to help students with long distance learning. Structure can help a student make progress much faster when there is someone who can guide, critique and direct a student in a specific area.
July 9 at 6:56am

Joseph Barnes
I myself have in the past emailed some of the faculty at Memphis College of Art, never got a reply. A friend who is a graphic artist told me they would take me more seriously if I sent them some examples of my work…. but all in all, I do still need to work hard on the basics, in reality, I still hav eproblems with some of that, and thus far … See Morehave always worked only in pencil/pen/art marker. I do have another friend who does a variety of art styles and media (batiks, scarves, also has done some botanical paintings), I have been meaning to contact her about my thoughts, she might be a possible local mentor. I am really enjoying everyone’s thoughts & comments. And Mindy, fancy seeing you here! :o)