Mary Janet Wellensiek
Several years ago I decided I would like to learn to paint with watercolors. It was not as easy as I had expected, but it has been more rewarding, fun, and challenging than I could have imagined.
Having no background in drawing and looking for familiar subjects, I began to concentrate on flowers, fruits, seeds, vegetables, trees — things I knew and loved. However, I soon realized that before I could paint, I needed to learn to draw.
I began taking courses in the certificate program at the Chicago Botanic Garden— a set of core courses and electives leading to a Certificate in Botanical Arts. It was here that I met Heeyoung, who was teaching there, and with whom I have continued my studies.
I draw and paint from live subjects — flowers & vegetables, twigs & trees. I work year round, enjoying the garden in winter as well as spring, summer, and fall. I work in watercolor, graphite, pen and ink, and can never quite decide which I like most!
Having no background in drawing and looking for familiar subjects, I began to concentrate on flowers, fruits, seeds, vegetables, trees — things I knew and loved. However, I soon realized that before I could paint, I needed to learn to draw.
I began taking courses in the certificate program at the Chicago Botanic Garden— a set of core courses and electives leading to a Certificate in Botanical Arts. It was here that I met Heeyoung, who was teaching there, and with whom I have continued my studies.
I draw and paint from live subjects — flowers & vegetables, twigs & trees. I work year round, enjoying the garden in winter as well as spring, summer, and fall. I work in watercolor, graphite, pen and ink, and can never quite decide which I like most!
