Join us in the new community room to explore seasonal botanical drawing inspired by the autumn leaves and berries of Abney Park, with artist Jo Roberts. This weekend class is £20/£10 concessions for full time students, disabled people, senior citizens, people claiming Universal Credit. (We have more community botanical drawing classes coming up on Tuesday mornings which are supported by the National Heritage Lottery Fund). Materials will be provided. No experience is necessary - so whether you’re new to drawing or you’re a pro, you’re more than welcome.

Botanical illustration is both an art form and a means of scientific engagement. These introductory classes will teach you how to depict form, use colour and sketch differences in plant species with precision and detail. Suitable for both beginners and those with some experience.

Jo studied at The Slade School of Fine Art achieving a Masters of Fine Art in 1999,  then she went on to train in botanical illustration at Edinburgh botanical gardens. She has always loved drawing nature and she he now works as a freelance artist and illustrator as well as teaching.

Jo has taught for South London Botanical Institute, City Lit and Imperial College, as well as being an occasional visiting tutor at The Slade School of Fine Art. Botanical illustration and Natural History illustration are her favourite subjects to teach, she says “there is something very enjoyable about teaching people how to slow down and really look at the natural world around them.”

Access information: The Delph Room is located next to Abney Park Cafe, near the High Street entrance to Abney Park. This entrance is step-free, and the Church Street entrance has ramp access. This community room is fully accessible, with accessible toilets and baby changing facilities available.