Classes, Workshops & Exhibitions

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Monthly Botanical Art Classes -
Barnsdale Gardens, Rutland

10.00am - 3.00pm

Aimed at both beginners and those with some experience, these regular classes are held in the Garden Studio of the inspirational Barnsdale Gardens, which was home to the BBC's "Gardener's World" TV Programme.

With a new subject each term, students receive structured tuition which is easily adapted to individual needs due to the small class sizes. We are a friendly, supportive and welcoming group and would love to see you join us. Monthly classes are held on Saturdays, two seperate Wednesdays or Thursdays. Please contact me for 2026 dates.

£40 per class, a term payable in advance.

Individual Tuition

I am able to offer one-to-one classes in botanical and natural history illustration, in either your home or the Studio at Barnsdale Gardens.. Students undertake individual tuition for a variety of reasons, eg, the lessons fit in around their schedule, they are working on a specific project.
Classes can be booked in individual 3 hour sessions.
Should you prefer to be taught in your home, there is an additional mileage charge

Gift vouchers are available should you wish to buy a creative experience for a family member or friend.
Please contact me to discuss your requirements: djw.illustrations@hotmail.co.uk
07976 051545

2-Day Botanical Art Workshops - Barnsdale Gardens

Aimed at beginners and those with limited experience, these themed, 2-day workshops are a great introduction to the world of botanical art.

Small class sizes allow for individual tuition and progression in a beautiful setting (the cream tea is also quite yummy).

Click on the photo for more information on Barnsdale Garden's website. Booking is also via their website or office.

Level 1 - Beginners

Level 2 - Improvers & Advanced

'Botanical Drawing & Illustration' -
Nottingham Trent University Short Courses

Following the success of the BD&I short courses, the Level 1 programmes are continuing into 2026 as both a short course and as part of the University's Summer School events programme.

New For 2026: We are also pleased to announce that a follow-on course is available in 2026. Level 2 will run as a 4 week short course and as part of the University's Summer School events programme.

This Level is only suitable for those who have completed Level 1, or who have some experience of botanical drawing and painting in watercolour.

Click on the photo on the left for more information at NTU. Booking is via NTU's website.

Below are examples of students' work

Field Studies Council - Slapton Ley, Devon

Botanical Art & Illustration: Beginners & Improvers

10 - 14 August 2026

Come and join me at the inspirational setting of the FSC's Slapton Ley Nature Reserve. The course is aimed at both beginners and improvers; it can be extremely advantageous for those with little or no experience to work alongside painters with some expertise. The sharing of skills and knowledge is greatly encouraged and can be beneficial to all concerned.

Click on the photo on the left for more information, including how to book onto this course.

Field Breaks Art
Cliff College, Cliff Lane, Calver, Hope Valley S32 3XG

1 - 4 June 2026 Exploring Botanical Art In Watercolours

This residential course, is aimed at both complete beginners and improvers. Using watercolours and working directly from a choice of specimens, you will develop your knowledge and skills of botanical art, learning how to represent three dimensional objects on a flat surface.

Click on the photo for more information, including how to book onto these courses

New For 2026

22nd January | 19th February | 19th March | 16th April
Thursdays, 10am-12:30pm.

New Year, New Hobby! Watercolour painting classes for beginners.

Start the year creatively with An Introduction to Watercolour Painting at Barnsdale Gardens, led by artist Dawn Wright.

Perfect for complete beginners, this four-day course will help you gain confidence with brushes, colour mixing, and a range of watercolour techniques.

Through friendly demonstrations and one-to-one support, Dawn will guide you in creating your own atmospheric paintings inspired by nature. Enjoy a relaxing, hands-on experience while discovering the joy of watercolour painting in beautiful surroundings.

Price includes: All materials; tea/coffee and entry to the Gardens every day of this four day course.

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Monthly Botanical Art Classes - Barnsdale Gardens, Rutland