Explore the incredible diversity of tropical fruit trees now growing in our new conservatory spaces! Discover how and why we developed this unique collection, and learn the fascinating stories behind these plants. You’ll also have the opportunity to taste a variety of tropical fruits you may never have experienced before. Come ready to explore, learn, […]

Studio Sessions provide dedicated time for students to strengthen their botanical illustration skills in a supportive, practice-focused environment. Each session includes an instructional focus—such as value, form, composition, or digital reproduction—alongside ample time for individualized guidance and hands-on work. Studios are open to all Botanical Illustration Certificate students and serve as a bridge between structured […]

Working with a combination of drawing inks, watercolors and acrylics over charcoal, tape, oil pastel, graphite and wax, we will use varied tools to layer media and create small richly colored floral still lifes on Bristol board and watercolor papers. As we develop imagery that reflects each artist’s vision of a selection of garden botanicals, […]

Capture the rich colors and textures of an autumn sunset in this hands-on floral design workshop. Using a curated mix of fresh blooms, seasonal foliage, and grasses, you'll learn how to create depth, movement, and color harmony in a lush centerpiece inspired by nature's most dramatic evening skies. Perfect for beginners and experienced designers alike, […]

Spend the evening at the Garden enjoying a light snack and drink while creating your very own pumpkin stack painting under the step by step guidance of local Virginia artist and art educator Ellie Franklin. Perfect for an evening out with friends! Fee includes wine or infused water, cheese and crackers and all materials. Fees: […]

Nature is always speaking—you just have to slow down and listen. Whether you live in a city, suburb, or countryside, there’s a world of beauty waiting to be noticed. Nature journaling is your key to seeing more, wondering more, and connecting more deeply to the world around you. In this guided class, local artist and […]

Botanical illustrators need to be well versed in the intricacies of plant form. Morning sessions help you learn to understand the structure of flowering plants and to study and draw a diversity of plant parts under the guidance of a botanist, John Hayden. Students keep an illustrated study journal. Scientific names in botanical illustration are […]

We’ll unravel the proper answer to this age-old question by describing the 13 distinct botanical divisions that comprise the genus Narcissus. Traditional harbingers of spring, daffodils are among the easiest flowers to grow, and in central Virginia you can enjoy blooms from early February on through April by mixing early, mid, and late season varieties. […]

Step into the vibrant world of the Gesneriaceae family- a diverse group of plants known for their beautiful blooms, unique foliage, and fascinating growth habits. In this class, we will explore what makes the African violet family so unique. You will learn how to best care for these beauties and keep them alive for years […]