We are pleased to feature the delicate and detailed work of Jayne Cornforth, who is studying on the Botanical Coloured Pencil Diploma Course. Jayne recently completed Assignment 5, producing two beautifully composed still life studies—one of onions and one of citrus fruit and grapes.
Each piece has been carefully observed and rendered with a thoughtful approach to composition, texture, and colour. Jayne considered the natural placement of objects, using the rule of three and asymmetrical balance to guide the viewer’s eye through the work. Her use of contrasting surfaces, such as the papery layers of a red onion beside smooth inner flesh, adds depth and visual interest.
In her summary, Jayne explains:
“I tried to consider how the viewer’s gaze could be drawn around both pictures… using an odd number of subjects and an asymmetrical arrangement with different textures to provide a natural image.”

She experimented with layering and blending a wide range of coloured pencils to capture subtle hues and shadows, noting that the red onion and lemon were particularly challenging to get right. Jayne used a daylight lamp and callipers to enhance her accuracy and control, helping to ensure colour consistency and proportion throughout. Her attention to botanical detail, supported by research and literature, clearly shines through.
We look forward to following Jayne’s continued progress as she moves through the course.
If you are inspired by Jane’s work and would like to develop your own botanical drawing skills, our Botanical Coloured Pencil Diploma Course offers step by step tuition, personal feedback from tutors, and the opportunity to build a beautiful, detailed portfolio. Enrol at any time!

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