This special evening celebrates the launch of Beyond Botanical: A Guide to Drawing Plants in Nature by Daniel the Gardener, set within the unique surroundings of Chelsea Physic Garden, London’s oldest botanical garden. Rather than a traditional book launch, the evening invites you to explore the Garden, draw from direct encounters with plants and join a guided session led by Daniel, accompanied by live acoustic music from Diana Vela.

On arrival, you will receive your copy of Beyond Botanical, which includes space for drawing and journaling. You are welcome to explore at your own pace before gathering for the guided session. Daniel will be present throughout to meet guests, answer questions and support you as you begin.

The guided session will draw on selected exercises from the book, including a site specific exercise developed through Daniel’s work at Chelsea Physic Garden. Please note that a copy of the book is required to participate in the guided session. 

The evening will close with a short guided immersion, inviting closer attention to the plants around you.

As the session takes place outdoors, we encourage you to bring a blanket and wear comfortable, warm clothing. All drawing materials will be provided.

Watercolours featured in the book will be on display, and there will be an opportunity to add a personal mark to your copy.

Each ticket includes one copy of Beyond Botanical. A separate ticket option is available for those who already own the book.

Places are limited.

Everyone is welcome and no prior drawing experience is required. The book is designed to be accessible to a wide range of ages and abilities.

BIO

Daniel the Gardener is a botanical artist based in London, who’s practice bridges painting, illustration and freehand tattooing.

Working from his North London leafy studio, Daniel combines illustration, nature and storytelling to create a botanical compositions that explore personal connection to flora and place.

In recent years, he has presented a drawing workshop and a live tattoo performance at Chelsea Physic Garden.