Class Reflection: Fundamentals of Botanical Art with Helen Cousins

As a special treat and part of a belated birthday gift my husband and I took a trip down south for a Fundamentals of Botanical Art workshop with Helen Cousins. The workshop focused on beginner watercolour techniques and a finished piece at the end.

The workshop was located in a beautiful garden full of floral inspiration, hidden alcoves and stunning grounds. We were mesmerized as soon as we stepped foot into the gardens like being transported to a magical fairy garden. I loved this workshop, not only did I have so much fun with Paddy, we also learned so much from Helen. The course covered the following:

• Watercolour basics, washes, layering, wet-on-wet etc.

• Colour mixing for botanical art

• Drawing accurate botanical drawings from life

• Transferring a drawing onto watercolour paper

• Materials lists to get started

• Observational skills, noticing shadows, light and values

• Trusting your decisions when putting paint to paper

I was thankful for the basics being taught in person because Paddy was with me and I wanted him to have a good time! Helen was warm, knowledgeable and was excellent at going step by step and ensuring everyone kept pace. At first we worked on technique and after we were comfortable we moved onto creating a botanical illustration of pansies from life! I was excited to give this flower a go. I had done a few pansies from Helen’s membership, but never tried one from life! 

The end of the workshop was a bit bittersweet because I had such a wonderful time, I didn’t want the day to end. Paddy and I were the last to leave and since we didn't quite finish our pieces, Helen graciously let us take our boards home with us. This workshop invigorated me and helped encourage me on my way to continuing my botanical art journey!