Lindley Learn - The Botanical Artists' Toolkit

Join RHS Libraries as we delve a little deeper into our collections with a study day inspired by the RHS Botanical Art and Photography Show.

We are excited to welcome artist and RHS Botanical Art Judge, Deborah Lambkin, for this study afternoon exploring the process of developing a botanical artwork, including preparations and research, fieldwork, equipment and materials.

It will be made up of a lecture by Deborah, sharing her insight as a professional botanical artist and experience on expeditions, including her 2025 trip to Madagascar. This will be followed by a tour of selected historic and contemporary works from the RHS Lindley Library collections, led by RHS Art Curator, Charlotte Brooks.

The tour will explore a selection of artworks which provide further insights into the artistic process, including artist sketchbooks, unfinished works and our collection of orchid portraits painted by Deborah Lambkin.

There will be regular breaks and light refreshments will be served, plus the opportunity to ask questions throughout the session. Note: this is not a practical session.

This event coincides with the RHS Botanical Art and Photography Show, on display at the Saatchi Gallery, Friday 19 June - Sunday 2 August 2026.

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Speaker

Deborah Lambkin - Deborah is an RHS Gold Medal winning botanical artist. Since 2005 Deborah has been the official orchid portrait artist of the RHS, and currently sits on the Botanical Art Judging Panel, awarding medals to contemporary botanical artists exhibiting at the annual RHS Botanical Art & Photography Show. She is also a regular contributor to Curtis's Botanical Magazine. Discover more of Deborah's work on her Instagram @deborahlambkin

RHS Lindley Library - Our beautiful library in central London holds world-renowned collections of rare and modern books, botanical art, photography and archives.

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Event Details

Tickets for this event are limited and must be purchased in advance. Tickets are £20 for RHS members and students, and £25 for non-members. The ticket cost supports the RHS Lindley Library.

The RHS Lindley Library is closed to the public on Mondays. Doors will open to event ticket holders at 1.15pm, with the session beginning at 1.30pm.

Please note that due to the nature of the Edwardian building, it is necessary for participants of the event to be able to independently manage stairs.

RHS Libraries events explore unexpected perspectives on horticulture with a unique selection of collections tours, talks, workshops and conversations. Discover our programme of online and in person events on EventBrite.

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Contact

For any questions, including accessibility enquiries, please email [email protected]

Discover more about the RHS Lindley Library via our website, social media and new Digital Collections.

The image in the banner was kindly provided by Deborah Lambkin. Discover treasures from the RHS Lindley Collections for free on RHS Digital Collections.

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