How often do we see technically brilliant botanical paintings with specimens arranged all on one plane? In their natural habitat, plants overlap and intermingle with others to create a backdrop against which to view the stars of the show. Elaine Searle will reveal her techniques for creating intrigue and drama with more complex layered compositions. Topics covered will include setting up clear focal points, using ‘atmospheric perspective’ and when and how to let go of detail in some areas. You will work towards a small painting using these techniques. This course is ideal for advanced beginners or intermediate artists who wish to take their compositions to a new level. The three day class (October 23 – 25) will be held in the Putnam classroom at The Gardens at Elm Bank, 900 Washington Street in Wellesley, and is $395 for Friends of Wellesley College Botanic Gardens, $495 for nonmembers. Register by calling 781-283-3094, or email wcbgfriends@wellesley.edu.