Botanical and scientific illustration share many common themes – the meticulous observation, the crucial composition, the precision of rendering and the accuracy of colour are all intrinsic to this niche genre of art. In this beautiful book, Sarah Jane Humphrey explains the techniques of the botanical artist but also introduces ideas for scientific illustration, so that the illustrator has a fuller understanding when rendering the natural world. Detailed instruction on all aspects of illustration is given, from application and materials to research and field trips. There is practical advice on using monochrome and colour theory to bring your illustration to life. Illustrated with over 200 of the author’s exquisite illustrations, it is an invaluable companion for both beginners and experienced artists, as well as a source of inspiration and joy.
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32 reviews for Botanical Art with Scientific Illustration
4.5out of 5
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★★★★★
Fiona Elizabeth Fearnhead –
Instructive
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★★★★★
Amazon Customer –
A beautiful and helpful book for anyone wanting to know more about scientific illustration. A nice book to have in my library!
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★★★★★
Ilana –
The book is badly written. There are numerous basic botanical mistakes (for instance, bulbs are not roots!!!!). The methods section in fact offers no methods. The scientific approach section does not explain how to measure the object, or how to add scale, or any other basic knowledge. All the images are by the author, though she writes about other artists as well. How stupid is it to extensively write about Da Vinci or Elizabeh Blackwell- without any images of their work? The book feels as a constant self-promotion of the author, without any substantial advise. I’m sorry I bought this book.
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★★★★★
Ms. Periwink –
Since I have not read the entire book, this is but a first impression. As a student of traditional botanical illustration, this is the “manual” I have been seeking for a long time. The reference to “science” emphasizes the importance of accuracy in portraying flowers and other botanical specimen. Once the artist masters this, then he/she can move on to the subtleties of revealing the beauty and even drama of the subject. The term “botanical painting” often includes looser depictions of flowers, etc. In contrast, botanical illustration is set apart as a more challenging and, I think, rewarding venture which, at its best, reveals an awesome verisimilitude to nature. And this book will get you started and take you there.
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★★★★★
Mrs. B. Taylor –
Was recommended this book a while ago. Looked it up on Amazon. Sent for it. Arrived earlier than expected. What a brilliant book! Lots of ideas and interesting information. Will recommend to my artist friends. The historical section at the beginning particularly interesting and easy reading. Thank you Sarah Jane Humphrey.
Fiona Elizabeth Fearnhead –
Instructive
Amazon Customer –
A beautiful and helpful book for anyone wanting to know more about scientific illustration. A nice book to have in my library!
Ilana –
The book is badly written. There are numerous basic botanical mistakes (for instance, bulbs are not roots!!!!). The methods section in fact offers no methods. The scientific approach section does not explain how to measure the object, or how to add scale, or any other basic knowledge. All the images are by the author, though she writes about other artists as well. How stupid is it to extensively write about Da Vinci or Elizabeh Blackwell- without any images of their work? The book feels as a constant self-promotion of the author, without any substantial advise. I’m sorry I bought this book.
Ms. Periwink –
Since I have not read the entire book, this is but a first impression. As a student of traditional botanical illustration, this is the “manual” I have been seeking for a long time. The reference to “science” emphasizes the importance of accuracy in portraying flowers and other botanical specimen. Once the artist masters this, then he/she can move on to the subtleties of revealing the beauty and even drama of the subject. The term “botanical painting” often includes looser depictions of flowers, etc. In contrast, botanical illustration is set apart as a more challenging and, I think, rewarding venture which, at its best, reveals an awesome verisimilitude to nature. And this book will get you started and take you there.
Mrs. B. Taylor –
Was recommended this book a while ago. Looked it up on Amazon. Sent for it. Arrived earlier than expected. What a brilliant book! Lots of ideas and interesting information. Will recommend to my artist friends. The historical section at the beginning particularly interesting and easy reading. Thank you Sarah Jane Humphrey.
Morgan –
Beautiful guide. Love it.