For the practical element of this project, exploration of media, process and theory informed by an extensive body of contextual research, has been crucial in my understanding of the validity of this profession and its purpose not only throughout history but having advanced much of the scientific concepts we see today.
Practical techniques I have attempted include accurately observing an array of living plants, which can be seen throughout the accompanying
visual journal to this project.
In addition to live
observation, the collection and preservation of specimens has been critical
when attempting the process of dissection and analytical study of plant life. Through
creating a personal herbarium of collected plans from around and local to the Leeds area, this method has enabled me to feel informed through this investigation whilst experience almost becoming a scientist first hand.
Secondary research has
provided me with insight into the extensive array of traditional and contemporary media
processes used within the genre of botanical illustration and wider arts. The
processes explored include paper cut and collage, gouache, pen and ink, digital
editing software, flatbed scanning techniques and photography to name a few.
What originally began as an investigation into which media best conveys botanical and scientific subjects, this very quickly grew into a large body of practical work of which i am proud of.
The proposed outcomes aim therefore encompass
research and theories and my growing skill in being able to depict the plant form. My herbarium specimens have provided me with subject matter for the Leeds Winter Garden poster, created from reference using gouache. The aim of this poster attempts to not only appeal
to a creative audience, bringing the specimens to life, it also intends to
inspire the audience to document their own local plant life.
In addition, the Rare & Fascinating Flora botanical poster aims to practice
the important role of illustration in educating a non-expert audience on
environmental topics such as the ‘fragility’ of plant species. This poster has enabled me to adhere to technological illustration processes, such as stippling and accurate composition of varying botanical elements. i have also been able to apply relevant research and reference material such as that found in the ICUN 2017 ‘Red
List’ of critically endangered plant species. The purpose of this poster is therefore is educational, which appeals directly to my practice and how I see myself as an illustrator.
The practical resolutions
created for this project, combined with the visual journal and herbarium
specimens, i consider successful, achieving synthesis of theory into
practice whilst providing a comprehensive analysis of botanical illustration
from a variety of critical and contextual perspectives. I would have liked to achieve a lot more throughout this work, collating further imagery into additional pieces - the proposals of which have been included in my physical submission.
Overall I have thoroughly enjoyed this subject and COP3 module and feel it has greatly impacted the direction of practice which I hope to carry forward throughout the remainder of my lime at LAU.