Dip Pen and Ink Illustration: Capturing The Natural World

The finesse of dip pen and ink allows you to use light, form, and shadow to bring landscapes to life. Illustrator Philip Harris uses the technique to illustrate editorial articles, product packaging, and books for clients including Superdrug, Kohler, DK Books, and NowTV.

In this course, he teaches you how to create evocative illustrations of nature using dip pen and ink. Learn how to capture the sounds, smells, shapes, and textures of the world around you using traditional techniques. Are you ready to bring out the mysterious beauty of nature with a dip pen?

Begin the course by getting to know illustrator Philip Harris. He shares why drawing has always been an important part of his life thanks to his grandfather, and how he pursued a career in illustration. Then find out about the artists and influences which inspire him.

Explore the history behind using nature in art, before familiarizing yourself with the materials needed for the course, from fine liners to different pencils. Learn how to find references for your art and create a mood board using nature as your inspiration. Philip shares how he uses his own sketchbook as a visual guide to refer back to when illustrating.

Discover the different ways to use a dip pen for different effects, starting with linework and hatching. Learn how to use these techniques to create light, tone, volume, and texture, then collect elements from nature and draw them by studying their form and shadows.

Create your first sketchbook composition, adding a basic outline while keeping your light source in mind. Remove your planning line with an eraser, then use cross-hatching and fine line techniques from earlier in the course to add depth and atmosphere to your piece.

Philip guides you through adding a border to your illustration using a ruler and a fine liner. Then review your image and add any finishing touches to perfect it. To finish the course, learn how to prepare your art for printing and how to sell it online via platforms like Etsy and Big Cartel.

Create a wildlife-inspired illustration using a variety of dip pen and ink drawing techniques.

Anyone with an interest in learning to illustrate using dip pen and ink techniques or looking to connect with nature through art.

No previous experience is necessary, as Philip will walk you step-by-step through the techniques he uses.

In terms of materials, you will need paper, an eraser, a ruler, pencils, a dip pen, a dip pen holder, ink, and fine liners.