Discover how sketching can deepen the way you observe and appreciate plants in this class at Bellevue Botanical Garden, designed especially for plant lovers and gardeners. No prior drawing experience is necessary. Botanical sketch journaling is not about making perfect drawings—it is about slowing down, noticing details and recording your observations in a creative way. Esteemed botanical illustrator Crystal Shin will guide you through simple techniques for observing and sketching plants. Learn what botanical features to look for, how to begin a sketch journal and how quick sketches can help you better understand plant forms and structures. You will receive a sketchbook and pencil for in-class use that you can take home. Feel free to bring your own drawing supplies.

Instructor’s Bio:

Crystal is a botanical artist and natural science illustrator known for her detailed, scientifically accurate plant drawings. She completed the Natural Science Illustration Certificate program at the University of Washington and served as the primary botanical illustrator for the second edition of Flora of the Pacific Northwest for the UW Herbarium at the Burke Museum, creating 882 illustrations. She continues to work with the Herbarium as a botanical illustrator, and her artwork has been featured in various scientific journals and publications. Crystal is a sought-after instructor, teaching nationally and internationally for various organizations including the Burke Museum, the Washington Native Plant Society, the Guild of Natural Science Illustrators Northwest, Pacific Northwest Botanical Artists, the American Society of Botanical Artists, the New York Botanical Gardens, and the Vienna School of Botanical Illustration.