On Being Quiet

Have you ever wondered why libraries have special atmospheres? They are places where many congregate but where silence is the code. Quietness in an atmosphere means there is the presence of quiet minds, and quiet minds are not only relaxed, they can concentrate easily and create more freely. Imagine you are in the library of your mind, browsing the accumulated wisdom on the shelves of your life – listen to the...

Introducing Colored Pencil

By O. M. Braida - For many years students have been asking me to put a book together for a Colored Pencil tutorial. It has been an interesting endeavor especially when one considers that Colored Pencil is not the medium of the French Court Period. My thoughts about teaching this subject are to present the workshop from a tools and techniques point of view. As with all my teachings, I am always interested in helping...

Direct Observation

By O. M. Braida - Many times it is assumed that botanical art and illustrations are performed without reference to the living plant. Historically, the illustrations of the Herbals were in fact performed by monks in monasteries. These copyists would rely on books previously created for their new illustrations thus creating inferior illustrations often lacking in appropriate identification. The age of exploration brought...

Botanical Exercise

By Raymond Philips, M.D. ©2007 Especially for MyArtTeacher.com - Painting botanical subjects requires intense concentration.   During this effort, the body serves as a support for the mind and hand.  Yet, it too demands some attention now and then.  The artist can provide this attention through episodic movement.  That’s right: exercise! There are different results gained from exercise and a myriad ways of getting...

Plant Pollination & Their Pollinators

Although bees pollinate more flowers than butterflies, hummingbirds, and insects, butterflies seem to make people happy. Their bright colors light up a garden, they don’t sting, and favor hot colors and cool shady places. This means you can design your garden with bright, colorful flowers and a shady spot to sit down in and enjoy the show. Butterflies also increase your bird population as birds love to eat them! For...