Vergelegen Wine Estate, home to Africa’s only International Camellia Garden of Excellence, has hosted its inaugural contemporary botanical drawing masterclass, dedicated to exquisite camellia blooms.
The full day of focused creativity took place at the Somerset West estate on 8 July under the guidance of botanical artist and teacher Sally Arnold, who has an M.A. and Diploma in Botanical Art, and is a Fellow of the Society of Botanical Artists.
The first stop for participants Isobel O’Connor and Doris Palmer was selecting their favourite camellia blooms from the garden’s extensive collection, then settling down to work in the aptly named Camellia Cottage.
The workshop was an advanced, hands-on experience designed for those with established pencil drawing skills, a love of nature, and a keen eye for detail, said Arnold.
“The programme was structured to help artists refine their technique, elevate their individual style, and reinterpret a classical subject.
“Participants learnt how to plan, compose and execute a contemporary botanical artwork. Colour pencil layering, which can achieve richly luminous, three-dimensional shapes, was an important element.”
Flowering in autumn and winter, camellia blooms are elegant, rose-like flowers in shades of white, pink, and deep red. Glossy, dark green leaves contrast beautifully with their soft petals.
The International Camellia Society officially recognised Vergelegen in 2010. One of just 39 such gardens worldwide and one of only two in the Southern Hemisphere, the estate features more than 1,000 camellia shrubs, some dating back to the 1920s.
Vergelegen will host its popular annual camellia walks, led by gardens manager Richard Arm, on 31 July and 1 August. Camellia enthusiasts are encouraged to check the Vergelegen website https://vergelegen.co.za/ for updates.
Vergelegen is open daily from 08:30 to 17:00 (last entry at 16:00). Entry costs R30 per adult, while pensioners and learners pay R10. (Pensioners enjoy free entry on Mondays.)