Catherine Watters is a botanical artist and instructor with over 23 years of teaching experience throughout the U.S and in France. She co-developed the Botanical Art Certificate Program at Filoli, in Woodside, CA. Catherine will be returning to Atelier Clos Mirabel 14 – 21 June 2025 to deliver a week long workshop in Botanical Drawing and Painting.
About this course:
The Botanical Art Programme
Join Catherine Watters for one week of drawing and painting the incredibly diverse flora of Clos Mirabel, using watercolours to capture the colours and textures of the plants. After our walk in the garden, we will head to the studio where Catherine will introduce her 10 stages to successfully illustrate a subject. You will carefully observe, measure and draw your subject focusing on form, light and texture. After composing your illustration, we will discuss the properties of watercolours and transparent colour mixing. You will apply several layers from the base tea wash to the dry brush finishing touches, using proper lighting to make your subject come to life.
Discover the fascinating world of Botanical Art, starting with a walk around the magnificent Clos Mirabel property to choose your subject. A variety of plants will be in bloom including Roses, Hydrangeas, Iris, Lupin, Lilies and numerous fruits and vegetables growing in the Jardin Potager.
The course will include a PowerPoint presentation, numerous demonstrations and an exhibition on the last day.
Catherine will also show you how to create a Botanical Journal to document your experience at Clos Mirabel. This is a lovely way to capture a specialmoment in a magical place.
Students will work with graphite and watercolour. If you prefer, you can use coloured pencils. All levels of experience are welcome.
The Art Studio offers a spacious open plan layout of 75 m2. It is available at all times during your stay. Click here for more information.
