Series: The Art of Natural History

“It is indeed true that art is omnipresent in nature, and the true artist is he who can bring it out.” – Albrecht Dürer

Natural history is the study of plants and animals with particular emphasis on their relationship to the environment. It spans multiple disciplines, including botany, zoology, paleontology, and geology. This seminar series explores artistic representation of the natural world, from early field sketches to modern museum exhibits. The series examines the dual role art has played in making natural science accessible to the public, and in sharing research within the scientific community. Facilitated by Dr. David Berry, Selby Gardens’ Vice President for Visitor Engagement and Chief Museum Curator, this fascinating course of study offers a unique opportunity to delve into the histories of art and science, as well as Selby Gardens’ preserved and library collections. No prior knowledge of art history or natural science is required.

Session 1: Illustrating nature

Session 2: Collecting nature

Session 3: Stuffed, mounted, pickled, and dried

Session 4: Seeing the unseen

Session 5: Picturing the past

Session 6: Blossoms, bugs, birds, and beasts

Dates: Fridays, 10.30am-12.30pm: March 7, 14, 21, 28 and April 4, 11.

Enrollment is limited to 10 participants.

General admission is included in the course fee. We encourage you to stay and enjoy the Gardens after class.