Botanical and Natural History Illustration — An Annual Programme

Course Description

An artistic journey spanning a full academic year, combining meticulous scientific observation with the beauty of artistic expression.
Students study plants, flowers, birds, shells, and other elements of nature, and develop drawing skills.
The watercolours gradually transition from the basics to the finished works.

The programme addresses line, tone, colour, shape, and texture, followed by the techniques of wash and glaze.
and building layers, dry brushing, and colour blending. Students also learn to prepare study pages and to draw from
Living nature, and understanding light and shadow, depth, perspective, and composition.

Each student builds a cohesive portfolio throughout the year, then selects their strongest works and prepares them for participation in
Annual Courses Student Exhibition at the School of Calligraphy and Ornamentation.

Attendance options

Option one: Sunday, 10:30 AM–1:30 PM.
Attendance dates: September 2026: 27; October: 4, 11, 18, 25; November: 1, 8, 15, 22, 29; December: 6, 13; January 2027: 10, 17, 24, 31; February: 7; March: 21, 28; April: 4, 11, 18, 25; May: 2, 9, 23, 30; June: 13, 20, 27.

The second option: Monday, 4:30–7:30 PM.
Attendance dates: September 2026: 28; October: 5, 12, 19, 26; November: 2, 9, 16, 23; December: 7; January 2027: 4, 11, 18, 25; February: 1; March: 15, 22, 29; April: 5, 12, 19, 26; May: 3, 10, 24, 31; June: 7, 14, 21, 28.

The student selects only one option and does not attend both appointments together.

25% early bird discount 

Learning Objectives

• Developing observation and precise drawing from nature.
• Mastering fundamental and advanced watercolour techniques.
• Understanding colour, light, texture, composition, and perspective.
• Developing work from the initial study to the final painting.

Learning outcomes

• The production of accurate and expressive botanical and natural drawings.
• Use watercolours with confidence and independence.
• Completion of a comprehensive and ready-to-present technical file.
• Selecting and preparing works for the end-of-year exhibition.

About the Teacher

Siobhan Doherty is an award-winning Irish vegan artist, specialising in watercolour painting.
On paper and parchment. Four sets of stamps depicting Irish flora and fauna were designed,
Her works have been exhibited at the National Gallery of Ireland.

Certificates and grants

The course is accredited for Continuing Professional Development.
CPD.
Limited scholarships are exclusively available to UAE citizens from the Emirate of Fujairah.
Subject to eligibility, seat availability and final approval.