Learn To Draw Native Leaves -Botanical Art Workshop

Join botanical artist Jennifer Duval-Smith for a workshop that will guide you to draw a beautiful botanical subject with clarity, accuracy, and confidence. You’ll explore simple yet powerful nature journaling prompts and learn accessible techniques for capturing natural detail, skills that will enrich any creative practice.

All materials are provided, and no previous experience is needed. Whether you’re picking up a pencil for the first time or already comfortable with your craft, the techniques taught in this class will meet you where you are.

We begin in the elegantly restored Auckland Wintergardens before moving to a behind-the-scenes location at the Domain Nursery. There, you’ll have the opportunity to observe and record exquisite plant specimens specially curated for our group by the Wintergardens expert team.

Your workshop fee includes:

• A three-hour botanical art workshop with personalised guidance
• Morning tea and coffee
• All materials, including paper, pencils, clipboard, watercolour pencils, and brushes
• A donation to Friends of the Domain in recognition of their generous support

What is the Wintergardens Botanical Art Workshop Series?This workshop is part of an eight-part series running throughout 2026, each highlighting the remarkable work and plant collection of the Wintergardens. Class sizes are limited to ten participants to ensure a rich and engaging experience.

Cancellations:Cancellations made within seven days of the event are non-refundable. However, replacement attendees are warmly welcomed.

Accessibility:Please note that due to steep stairs and pathways, the nursery depot venue is currently not wheelchair accessible.

About your tutor:

Jennifer is a professional botanical artist and experienced art educator. Her work focuses on reconnecting people with nature and encouraging individual creative expression. She has served as Artist-in-Residence at Auckland Botanic Gardens and teaches at Te Uru Contemporary Gallery and Highwic House. Jennifer has exhibited internationally and represented New Zealand in the Botanical Art Worldwide Exhibitions of 2018 and 2025, receiving the People’s Choice Award in 2025. You can view her work at www.jenniferduval-smith.com.

Student Feedback on Jennifer’s previous botanical art classes:

"Jennifer ...your workshop gave me much inspiration and am endeavouring to paint a little every day now"

“Today was both a treat and a real privilege! Thank you for your time and expertise… I learnt a great deal. The pace was perfect and I loved the sensory extension…”

"A lovely atmosphere generated by Jennifer's joy in botanical art and her ability to include and enthuse students"

"I love Jennifer's teaching style very clear, well structured but relaxed, positive, encouraging and informative"

“Jennifer was awesome, took us through step by step, especially about the observation aspect and construction of the subject, I would go to her classes again.”

"This class will change how I approach drawing, for the better""Jennifer ...your workshop gave me much inspiration and am endeavouring to paint a little every day now"

“Today was both a treat and a real privilege! Thank you for your time and expertise… I learnt a great deal. The pace was perfect and I loved the sensory extension…”

"A lovely atmosphere generated by Jennifer's joy in botanical art and her ability to include and enthuse students"

"I love Jennifer's teaching style very clear, well structured but relaxed, positive, encouraging and informative"

“Jennifer was awesome, took us through step by step, especially about the observation aspect and construction of the subject, I would go to her classes again.”

"This class will change how I approach drawing, for the better"

Also check out other Workshops in Auckland, Arts events in Auckland, Fine Arts events in Auckland.