Botanical Shoes: A workshop in Illustration

Capture beautiful botanical subjects through the silhouette of footwear.

Step into a creative experience for a day where nature meets design at Shoemakers Museum. Inspired by the book ‘Botanical Shoes by Billy Showell’.

Join artist and illustrator Katherine O’Shea for a unique workshop exploring how to capture beautiful botanical subjects through the silhouette of footwear. This inspiring session blends art, observation, and imagination in a truly distinctive setting.

Katherine will guide you through the fundamentals of drawing using plant forms, exploring techniques such as line versus tone, complementary colours, and capturing intricate detail. Combining traditional approaches with contemporary illustration methods.

These workshops are designed for adults of all abilities — whether you’re picking up a pencil for the first time or looking to refine your practice. By the end, you’ll be well on your way to creating a botanical art work to treasure.

The class begins with a short inspirational walk through the upper gallery of Shoemakers Museum, where you’ll gather ideas and visual references. Back in the studio space, you’ll take part in supportive, guided exercises that build confidence, help you discover your personal drawing style, and offer the joy of creating together in a relaxed group setting. There will be a selection of objects available to sketch and a selection of imagery.

There will be fresh flowers in the studio space and you are welcome to bring your own materials in addition to what is being provided – perhaps a favourite pair of shoes?

Sessions include refreshments and a generous cake buffet— because creativity flourishes best when shared.
Lunch is available in addition in our independent café. Please let us know any dietary requirements you have when you book your place.

 Tickets are £45 per person which includes guided tutoring from the artist, unlimited refreshments, day entry to the museum, cake and unlimited refreshments.

Inspired by the book ‘Botanical Shoes by Billy Showell’ available to buy at Shoemakers Museum shop.

About the tutor – Kathryn O’Shea

Katherine is an illustrator and artist from Somerset. Her practice is focused on drawing, with an emphasis on detail and a strong foundation in observational sketching using traditional mediums.
She has a first class degree in Visual Communication (Illustration) and completed her art foundation at Central Saint Martins, as well as a residential course in Illustration at the School of Visual Arts in New York. She has been a published children’s book illustrator since 2012.

In addition to her illustration work, Katherine teaches a range of creative workshops for different levels and ages. In her botanical art classes, she employs techniques learned from studying with the Royal Kew Gardens’ Artist-in-Residence alongside more accessible methods from contemporary illustration, so that everyone can find a way of drawing that feels right for them.

katherineoshea.co.uk / Instagram katherine.oshea