Illustrating Pollinators for Botanical Art: Butterflies

A Three-Day Intensive Workshop on the Form and Function of Butterflies

This workshop is designed to deepen your understanding of butterflies beyond basic anatomy. Rather than simply identifying the head, thorax, and abdomen, we’ll explore how leg structures, mouthparts, and flight patterns reveal a butterfly’s purpose, personality, and ecological role. By studying the epitome of form and function, artists will gain insight into how these elements create life in motion.

Over three intensive days, we’ll blend structured instruction, guided observation, and hands-on drawing exercises to develop both technical skill and scientific understanding. Instead of rushing to complete a portfolio-ready piece, you’ll create a meaningful, well-designed observational record that serves as a foundation for future work.

Key Learning Components:
✔ Live Demonstrations & Guided Instruction – Learn structured methods for drawing butterflies accurately and scientifically.
✔ Hands-On Drawing & Observation – Apply concepts directly through structured drawing exercises.
✔ Scientific Pinning & Preservation – Learn techniques for preparing specimens for study and reference.
✔ Group Discussions & Inquiry-Based Exploration – Strengthen your ability to interpret form and function through critical thinking.

This class bridges visual art, science, and ecology, guiding botanical artists to illustrate not just the beauty of nature, but its deeper purpose—capturing form, function, and the interconnected roles of pollinators through careful observation and mark-making.

See class supply list below.

Fees: Member $240, Non-Member $288

All programs are subject to change. Pre-registration through our website is required.

Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden strives to be a Garden for all and we are committed to offering diverse adult learning opportunities that are inclusive and accessible to all learners. If you would like to request an accommodation to support your participation in an adult learning opportunity at the Garden, please contact bWVnYW5jIHwgbGV3aXNnaW50ZXIgISBvcmc= or call 804-262-9887 x320 and we will make our best effort to help.

You may also like the following events from Clara Aus, Lepidopterist:

• This month, 29th June, 01:00 pm, The Power of Pollinators @ Lewis Ginter in Lakeside
• Next month, 26th July, 01:30 am, Moth Observation Night @ Lewis Ginter in Lakeside

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