RBGE Certificate in Botanical Illustration

The RBGE Certificate in Botanical Illustration (CBI) is a great way learn the fundamental techniques of paint and pencil. Using plants as our core subject this course is an ideal starting certificate for those wishing to complete the RBGE Diploma in Botanical Illustration.

The techniques you learn are valuable across all areas of illustration and a seldom taught in art colleges or university art departments, so it is well suited to any developing artist.

There are many courses that teach botanical illustration, but this structured course consists of 10 units with assessment built into the programme within a standard framework.  The focus is on the fundamental skills, and is taught by experienced and enthusiastic tutors.

What does the course cover?
The course will cover fundamental skills such as 3d modelling, colour mixing, painting techniques and composition. The techniques you learn are valuable across all areas of illustration and a seldom taught in art colleges or university art departments, so are well suited to any developing artist.

This certificate also gives you all the skills required to join the RBGE Diploma in Botanical Illustration if you wish to take your studies to a professional level.

When can I start?
The next attended course will be our summer block course starting in July 2019, the monthly course will start in August 2019.
If you would like to receive details of the 2019-20 online course when they become available, please email education@rbge.org.uk to be added to the mailing list.

What is the format of the course?
The course consists of the 10 units:

There is some theory provided to aid your understanding (in the form of short, highly visual presentations), but the course is designed to be delivered and assessed using a predominantly practical approach.

The CBI is a formal qualification and students must therefore pass on-going assessment to achieve the award. Students are required to build up a course portfolio containing notes, visuals and exercises. This body of work will show progression and help develop skills leading to a final painted composition. Both the portfolio and the final piece will be assessed and the marks combined to provide the final grade. There is also an element of continuing self-assessment and evaluation within the programme.

Attended Course: There is a summer block course that runs over 2 weeks in July or a monthly course that runs from August 2019 – June 2020 with the individual units taking place on Saturdays.

Online Course: Using Propagate Learning, our online platform, you will be able to access course materials such as slideshows / presentations, notes, videos, quizzes, galleries as well as tutor support, discussion forums, and an upload area for your drawings and paintings. The online certificate runs for approximately 6 months.

Do I need any prior knowledge?
You do not need prior experience for this course. Enthusiasm and motivation is all that is required!

How much does the course cost?
The cost is £600. The full payment is required on acceptance of a place.

What support will I get for the online course?
Tutor support takes place on our Propagate learning environment forums. There is also a private messaging activity within PropaGate Learning where you can contact your tutor directly.

You will also be able to interact with and take advice from fellow students.

What do I need?
This is a practical course so you must have basic drawing and watercolour painting materials. A detailed list can be found in the course handbook. For the online course additional equipment such as a scanner will be required.  

How do I apply?
You can download the Applicant's Handbook which contains further information and the application form.