Botanical Illustration presentation
I had the privilege to do a presentation and teach observational drawing at this wonderful local school in September 2025. I was invited by Kate Mockridge, Head of the Art Department, to visit Tockington Manor School and give a talk to pupils about my profession and what it involves. I thought I might be blinding them with science as the children were only 11-13 year olds but they all amazed me with their enthusiasm. We studied ivy and drew with pencil. I was very impressed by the results.
I loved every minute. Thank you for inviting me!
See the schools post on Facebook here:
"In the Art Room, botanical artist Jackie Isard shared fascinating insights into her life and career as an artist while coaching the children through some observational drawing, focusing on Ivy. Jackie is a Fellow of the Society of Botanical Artists and an RHS Gold Medal winner - and completely self-taught! She was incredibly impressed by the children’s enthusiasm and engagement and some beautifully thoughtful studies were created." Kate Mockridge
The presentation
I made a powerpoint about botanical illustration, the history, the method and what I do all day! I thought I may be blinding them with science but their enthusiam was immense.
Looking at some of my work
Pupils were amazed when I showed them some of my paintings.
Drawing ivy
Pupils studying ivy and drawing it in pencil. They were all very enthused and some of them made very accurate drawings!
Pencil drawing of ivy
An super ivy branch illustrated by one of the pupils.
Looking at my paintbox
I asked pupils if they would you like to see my paintbox and there was a loud "Yessss, please".
Proud pupils with their drawings
I was very proud of their drawings, they all did so well! I thoroughly enjoyed the experience.