What does a botanical illustrator do?

Botanical illustrator creates drawings of botanical subjects such as flowering plants and trees. Some may draw manually while others use computer drawing programs and other tools during their work. Botanical illustration is a very ancient field that mixes elements of art and science. Examples can be seen everywhere from seed catalogs to patent applications. Scientific illustrators do not only draw things, but also transmit information through their works of art. Illustrators must produce a reasonably scalated work that provides important information, such as accurate coloring and shading of flowers, natural variations inside the same species and the life phase of the plant. Some indicate their drawings with different plants and can show plants in different stages of life with other subtitles describing different phases in detail. The botanical illustrator can trace the development of fruit and seed, for example from beginning flowers to a finished product.

Many botanical illustrators work on general shares illustrations as well as on their own projects for clients. Botanical illustrations are often used in advertising for the sale of specific plants such as seed catalogs, and are also used in marketing campaigns for products with botanical element. For example, a company that produces soap

Such illustrations also appear in guides, scientific documents and patent applications. These illustrations must provide accurate, scientific details to help viewers distinguishment characteristics and understand the difference between different species. Botanical illustrator works with samples provided by the client, often uses microscopy and other tools to collect information, before delaying drawings. The client approves the gross that the botanical illustrator can complete with more detailed, stronger lines, etc.

Some botanical illustrators go to art school and also focus on training in biology. YouSoké schools, universities and botanical gardens sometimes offer botanical illustration programs for people who want certificates in this area. It is also possible to join professional organizations that are used for learning and creation options. Most illustrators maintain a portfolio of sampling work that would show those who want to find out if they will be in order for the job.