Join Anastasia Traina for an engaging and creative exploration of color in the world of flowers. Over two days, Feb. 26 and 27, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., we will delve into the fascinating world of color mixing, and to enhance our understanding, we’ll incorporate the psychology of color. As we turn our attention toward the red hues using watercolor and colored pencils, it’s essential to recognize that red is often associated with passion, energy, and intensity. We will also revisit the various shades of greens using watercolor and colored pencils, and consider not only the technical aspects of color mixing but also the emotional and psychological responses that different shades of green can evoke. In the realm of watercolors, we will experiment with creating a stunning rainbow grisaille effect. Grisaille involves painting in shades of gray to mimic the appearance of sculpture or drawing. By combining the technical aspects of color mixing with an understanding of color psychology, students will not only expand their artistic skills but also infuse a deeper layer of meaning and emotion into their botanical creations.

The classes take place at Berkshire Botanical Garden, and are $200 for BBG members, $220 for nonmembers. Register at https://www.berkshirebotanical.org/events/language-flowers-continues-splash-red

Anastasia Traina is a writer and botanical artist. Her illustrations have been published in the children’s book, BITSY and RAFF, written by David Caudle, a story which highlights the power of friendship and inclusion. She is a member of the American Society of Botanical Art, the Tri-State Botanical Artists of NYBG, the Writer’s Guild of America and the Dramatists Guild of America. Her most recent exhibition, “Alchemy and Innocents” was on display at the BBG’s Leonhardt Galleries in 2023. Commissioned for the Berkshire Botanical Garden to create Lucy’s Garden, featuring topiary animals and other ‘live’ structures on paper. Donated by Lucy and Nat Day.