Observing Nature through Art with Donnett Vanek

Contemporary botanical artist Donnett Vanek creates series of artworks that reflect her observations of plants over several seasons and often years. In this workshop, Donnett will take participants on a short walk through a garden at the Los Angeles Arboretum, discussing her use of notes and photography to record details of plants in their native habitat or garden. She will explore how to develop observations into a series of cohesive artwork. In the classroom, Donnett will demonstrate drawing techniques, perspective, and blocking in a sketch for a composition. Participants will sketch compositions using cuttings for the subject matter. The participants will be encouraged to consider how their compositions can be developed into a series of artworks. Participants will leave the workshop with an understanding of how observations and drawing skills enhance their botanical art. Observing nature through art, the botanical artist can encourage people to consider the crucial role we…