Drawing Nature, Science and Culture: Natural History Illustration 101

Learn how to see and draw nature like an illustrator. Build observational and visual interpretation skills in an interactive and enjoyable way.

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Created by: Andrew Howells

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Course Description

Whether an aspiring scientific or medical illustrator or someone who enjoys drawing nature's wonders, this first-of-its-kind MOOC course is for you.
The field of Natural History Illustration is about observing and illustrating subjects from nature, science and culture, with their linkages to the environment being central.
Our natural world is a fascinating place. Being able to observe and replicate it through illustration provides insights into life that can change how we think about ourselves and our surroundings.
You will learn essential skills and techniques that form the base for creating accurate and stunning replications of subjects from the natural world. This art and culture course is suitable for people looking to enter the illustration discipline as a serious pursuit or just looking to explore a passion.
As world-standard instructors, we will show you practical ways to develop your skills from the outset. Step by step, we will cover the fundamentals of Natural History Illustration, from the first observation of a subject in the field to the final replication in the studio.
This online course will teach you enduring skills that can be used in many different ways. Join us to explore, observe and draw the natural world and become part of a scientific tradition steeped in history.
Week 1: Introduction
Introduction to course and overview of NHI of historical and contemporary practice to set the scene for an immersive skills building experience.
Week 2: Observational drawing
Introduction to Natural History Illustration methods and demonstration on observational drawing.
Week 3: Field sketching and recording techniques
Introduction to working in the field and recording subjects and their environmental surroundings quickly and accurately.
Week 4: The structure of flowers and leaves
Understanding plant anatomy.
Week 5: The structure of mammals and birds
Understanding animal anatomy.
Week 6: Rendering
Creating finished artworks.

Beginner Level

Time: 6 Weeks - 3-6 hours per week

Instructor Details

Andrew Howells

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Dr. Howells is convenor of the Bachelor of Natural History Illustration program for the University of Newcastle. In his thesis Andrew developed a tool for the visual assessment of the body condition of Asian Elephants. His research interests include Art and Science collaboration, and digital and traditional illustration practice and methods. Andrew enjoys collaborating on projects with partners from a range of areas, for example Sydney's Taronga Zoo, and has established and been a part of a number of highly successfully exhibitions throughout Australia.