Discover the joy of botanical art in this relaxed workshop combining sketching and watercolour painting. Perfect for beginners or anyone returning to art, this course provides a welcoming environment to build confidence while exploring the beauty of flowers and foliage.

The workshop begins with the fundamentals of botanical sketching. You’ll learn how to simplify flowers, leaves, and stems into basic shapes before developing them into detailed line drawings using observation, proportion, and simple shading techniques.

In the second half of the workshop, you’ll bring your sketches to life with watercolour. Through guided demonstrations, you’ll explore essential techniques including wet-on-wet, wet-on-dry, layering, and colour mixing to create soft blends, natural textures, and vibrant botanical palettes. Using your own drawings as a guide, you’ll complete a simple botanical watercolour composition.

By the end of the day, you’ll have gained a solid foundation in both botanical drawing and watercolour painting, along with practical techniques to continue your creative journey at home. Most importantly, you’ll enjoy a relaxing and inspiring day connecting with nature, creativity, and fellow art enthusiasts.

No prior drawing or painting experience is required—all skill levels are welcome.

Course Outline:

• Introduction to botanical observation and basic sketching techniques
• Drawing simple flowers, leaves, and stems using basic shapes
• Developing line work, proportion, and light shading
• Introduction to watercolour materials and colour mixing
• Painting botanical elements using your sketches as a guide
• Creating a simple botanical watercolour composition

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:

• Observe and sketch basic botanical forms with greater confidence
• Apply simple drawing techniques to create floral and botanical studies
• Demonstrate watercolour techniques
• Mix colours to create natural botanical palettes
• Combine sketching and watercolour to produce a finished botanical artwork
• Continue practising botanical drawing and painting independently

What to bring:

• Drawing pencils (HB, 2B, 4B)
• Eraser and sharpener
• Fine liner pens (optional)
• A4/ A3 drawing paper or sketch book
• A small selection of flowers or leaves for inspiration (optional)
• Watercolour paints : https://www.eckersleys.com.au/winsor-newton-cotman-water-colour-halfpan-sketchers-pocket-box
• Watercolour brushes round size 3,5,8 from Ecklersley or other art stores
• Watercolour paper pad preferably 300 gsm : Reeves Watercolour Pads Size A3 (smooth) from Ecklersley / office works (please bring spares paper if not buying a pad)
• Waterproof black fine liner https://www.eckersleys.com.au/sakura-pigma-micron-pens
• Paint mixing palette (from Kmart or any discount store) or a flat dinner plate
• Scissors
• Tea towel / paper towel

Art Supplies Discount:

As a bonus for learning Art with SGSCC, all enrolled students are entitled to a generous 10% discount off the purchase of art supplies when they shop in-store at Eckersley’s Art & Craft, Taren Point!
View Eckersley's Website for product ideas.

About the Tutor:

Aileen is an experienced educator and artist with a passion for helping others explore their creativity. With over seven years of experience in teaching and interior design, Aileen has developed a strong ability to break down complex concepts into simple, enjoyable activities for learners of all levels.

As an artist specialising in watercolour, Aileen has created a range of original artworks for both adults and children. Her work reflects a love for nature and a commitment to creating positive, immersive experiences through art.

Aileen’s teaching philosophy is centred around gentle guidance, allowing students to express their creativity in a relaxed, supportive environment. Whether you’re new to drawing or looking to refine your skills, Aileen is dedicated to helping you feel confident and inspired throughout the workshop.

Other Information:

• To ensure resources are ready for you at the start of your course, we ask you ideally enrol at least one week before the course commences.
• All courses need a minimum number of students to run ("we try our hardest to get those") . If your course does not have enough students it will be cancelled before the commencement and you will be informed.