Learn art history and natural science with our art history short courses in Sydney!
Botanical art is more than an artistic pursuit — it reflects exploration, science, and culture. This three-part series offers a detailed journey through the stories of pioneering botanical artists, their global travels, and their lasting influence on art and science. From Marianne North’s extraordinary journeys to the Australian pioneers Margaret Forrest and Louisa Atkinson, through to the Romantic and Victorian influences that shaped their work, you’ll uncover how botanical art has evolved and why it continues to inspire today’s artists.
Through illustrated talks, curated readings, and guided discussions, you’ll engage with the cultural context, the lives of the artists, and the enduring power of their work.
Course Outline
- Session 1: Botanical Art and Global Exploration
- Marianne North’s journeys and Australian flora artworks
- Botanical art's role in science and discovery
- Session 2: Australian Pioneers and Victorian Contexts
- Focus on Margaret Forrest and Louisa Atkinson
- Discussion on Romantic art and 19th-century society
- Session 3: Legacy and Contemporary Connections
- Their influence on modern artists and conservation
- Interactive reflections and Q&A session
Schedule & Pricing
- Dates: Fridays, 21 Nov – 5 Dec 2025
- Time: 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
- Fee: $199
You will learn
- Describe contributions of major botanical artists and their global impact
- Explain 18th–19th century cultural and scientific influences on botanical art
- Analyse how historical botanical art inspires modern artists
You will get
- Guided lectures and visual presentations
- Curated readings and discussion materials
- Engaging group discussion and Q&A sessions
Appropriate for
Anyone with a passion for art, from complete beginners to those with intermediate knowledge of art history.
What to bring
- Notebook and pen
- Personal device (optional) for digital notes
- Curiosity and interest in art history
What to wear
Sydney Community College
38 reviewsSydney Community College is a registered charity with a voluntary Board of Directors.
The College has a mission to offer innovative continuing adult education and training programmes that support individual efforts and facilitate sustainable social change.
We do this by:
- Providing quality continuing adult education opportunities for people to build practical and theoretical skills and develop knowledge;
- Leveraging from and developing community capacity and inclusivity;
- Developing innovative affordable and accessible skills training programmes;
- Partnering with like organisations to deliver learning opportunities for disadvantaged individuals and communities;
- Partnering with all levels of government to deliver education policy objectives.
Cancellations & Refunds
If the organiser cancels the class:
You are entitled to a full refund.
If you can't attend the class:
You’re welcome to send someone in your place.
OR
- A refund can be requested 10 days before class starts. An admin fee of AU$45.00 applies.
Terms & Conditions
At Sydney Community College, we know that plans can change unexpectedly. Whether it’s a shift in your schedule, a family emergency, or just a change of heart, we want to support you in the fairest way possible.
At the same time, we’re a not-for-profit organisation that commits resources to running each class—so last-minute cancellations can significantly impact our ability to offer quality, affordable programs.
That’s why we’ve created a simple, transparent policy that balances your need for flexibility with our need to plan and deliver courses sustainably. Our cancellation policy offers two clear options, depending on when you notify us:
Cancel More Than 10 Days Before the Course Starts – You can choose to receive a full refund, minus a $45 administration fee OR a non-refundable credit note valid for 12 months for the full value you paid for the course. This credit can be used towards any future course at the College.
Option 2: Cancel Within 10 Days of the Course Starting - You’ll receive a credit note valid for 12 months for 50% of the course fee you paid for the course. This credit can be used towards any future course at the College.
Please note that both refund and credit options are only available before the course begins. Once the course has started—or if you decide to withdraw after it has commenced—no refunds or credits can be issued. If you need to cancel your enrolment, just email us and we’ll take care of it based on the timelines above.
Have more questions about this class?
Tags:
Art History: Botanical Artists
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