Drawing at the Natural History Museum with Laura

This museum-based drawing course offers a unique opportunity to develop your artistic skills while working directly from the Natural History Museum’s diverse collections. Suitable for all levels - from complete beginners to those returning to drawing or looking to refine their practice - the course supports individual growth within a creative and encouraging group setting.

Through hands-on exploration, you will build confidence in observational drawing, using a range of media including pencil, coloured pencil, and fine-liner pen. A strong emphasis on sketchbook work encourages experimentation, helping you explore natural forms in depth while developing your own visual language.

You will engage with key artistic principles such as line, form, tone, colour, and texture, learning how to represent the complexity of natural objects. The course balances independent practice with group discussion, giving you space to reflect on your work, share ideas, and learn collaboratively.

Sessions take place across different gallery spaces, with themes that vary each term to provide fresh inspiration and new perspectives on the collection. Alongside practical skill-building, you will deepen your cultural and scientific understanding of the museum’s exhibits.

By the end of the course, you will have developed stronger observational skills, greater confidence in creative decision-making, and a sketchbook that documents your progress and evolving artistic voice. Seating can be limited and stools will be available on a first come, first served basis. We recommend bringing a folding chair, such as those commonly used in museums or for camping this could be a tripod (three-legged) stool or any portable chair you find comfortable.