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Juicy Botanicals
Online marker drawing course

Juicy Botanicals a course with Poliksenia Chetin

  • Create 8 vibrant, highly detailed artworks featuring fruit and flowers
  • Learn to capture light, form, and texture in plants using a realistic marker technique
  • Develop the ability to see and accurately build proportions and colors in botanical subjects
Juicy Botanicals
Learn more about the course ↓
Medium: markers
Artworks: 8
Duration: 29 hours
Access: lifetime

What the course is about

For me, botany is an endless source of inspiration. Every petal, berry, or leaf holds dozens of shades, light effects, and tiny details. And that's exactly what I want to teach you in the course "Juicy Botanicals."

We won't just be coloring in drawings with markers. I'll show you how to build form, understand light and shadow, see color, and create convincing volume. You'll learn to work with alcohol-based markers the way realist artists do: with layering, clean color transitions, precise halftones, and attention to every detail.

Together we'll create a collection of vibrant botanical artworks: we'll draw juicy fruits and appetizing produce, capture the freshness of berries, the delicacy of flowering branches, and the beauty of large, expressive blooms. Each artwork will be a new step toward mastering realism and will help reinforce important artistic principles.

I want you to leave this course not just feeling confident with markers, but having learned to see the beauty of the world around you through an artist's eyes — and to transfer it to paper with ease.
Poliksenia Chetin

Who will benefit from this course

Juicy Botanicals

This course is designed for anyone who wants to learn how to create truly realistic artwork with alcohol-based markers.

If you already have experience working with markers, this course will help you organize your knowledge, explore the nuances of realism, and take the quality of your drawings to the next level.

If you draw well but are just getting started with markers, be ready for serious practice. It won't be easy — but that's exactly the kind of approach that delivers real growth.

Even if you feel like your drawing skills aren't quite there yet, we'll break down the fundamentals of form, light, tone, and volume, fill in the gaps, and learn to see objects through an artist's eyes.

Course Program

Lesson 1
Welcome
In this lesson we'll get acquainted, and I'll walk you through how the course is structured and what's waiting for you at each stage of your learning.
Lesson 1 — Welcome
Lesson 2
The Path from Beginner to Teacher
In this lesson I'll share my story and tell you how the journey from my first drawings led me to professional creative work and teaching. You'll learn what challenges I faced along the way, what helped me grow, and why I'm convinced that the most important things in learning are consistent practice, patience, and a love for what you do.
Lesson 2 — The Path from Beginner to Teacher
Lesson 3
Materials
In this lesson we'll go over all the materials you'll need for the work. I'll share what I use myself and help you find everything you need for a comfortable learning experience.
Lesson 3 — Materials
Lesson 4
"Scale Error and the 'Realism Grid': the anatomy of a symmetrical fruit using a strawberry as an example"
Duration: 1 hour 10 minutes
Sometimes a sketch can lose its convincingness due to a slight inaccuracy in proportions. To avoid this, in this lesson we'll create a handy reference tool for transferring shapes accurately without distortion. Then we'll put it to use right away: we'll explore the anatomy of a symmetrical fruit and draw a juicy, detailed cross-section of a strawberry.

In this lesson, we will:

  • we'll build the realism grid at different scales;
  • we'll choose a marker palette to match the reference;
  • we'll construct the object's shape using the grid;
  • we'll master a multi-layered technique for working with markers;
  • we'll learn how to soften dark shades with a light marker;
  • we'll create a radial gradient on the strawberry cross-section;
  • we'll place expressive highlights using white materials.
Lesson 4 — Strawberry
Lesson 5
"Bright Lemon"
Duration: 2 hours 10 minutes
This juicy citrus on a branch seems to have soaked up all the warmth of the summer sun. In this lesson we'll create a fresh, airy illustration. You'll learn how to capture that characteristic porous texture of the peel while keeping the drawing light, and how to make the yellow shades truly glow on the paper.

In this lesson, we will:

  • we'll create a harmonious asymmetric composition;
  • we'll construct the object using the realism grid;
  • we'll master a multi-layered working technique;
  • we'll capture the texture of citrus peel with markers;
  • we'll learn how to place matte highlights using white materials;
  • we'll add details that bring the illustration to life and give it a finished feel.
Lesson 5 — Bright Lemon
Lesson 6
"Blueberry Branch"
Duration: 2 hours 50 minutes
This scatter of wild berries framed by fresh foliage will guide you to a new level of skill. In this lesson we'll work on a rich, multi-layered illustration where every element finds its place. You'll see how a drawing comes alive through the subtle interplay of focus and soft shadows, with the key details standing out expressively from the surface of the paper.

In this lesson, we will:

  • we'll build a complex composition using the realism grid;
  • we'll master a multi-layered working technique;
  • we'll learn how to mix base colors to achieve complex shades;
  • we'll give the berries realistic volume;
  • we'll create depth using three planes;
  • we'll convey the effect of focus and soft blur;
  • we'll add details that bring the illustration to life.
Lesson 6 — Blueberry Branch
Lesson 7
"Cherry Blossom"
Duration: 4 hours
Delicate, almost translucent petals and plump, vivid berries create a strikingly beautiful contrast in this artwork. In this lesson we'll draw a truly fresh spring scene where every element calls for its own special approach. You'll learn how to combine the airy fragility of blossoms with the flawless glossy shine of berries in a single drawing — making them literally glow and breathe on the sheet of paper.

In this lesson, we will:

  • we'll build a complex composition using the realism grid;
  • we'll master a step-by-step, multi-layered approach to working with markers;
  • we'll learn how to mix complex, lively shades;
  • we'll convey the volume and glossy shine of rounded shapes;
  • we'll create depth by working through all the planes;
  • we'll achieve the effect of focus and soft blur;
  • we'll add expressive details in the foreground.
Lesson 7 — Cherry Blossom
Lesson 8
"Juicy Pomegranate"
Duration: 4 hours
Deep ruby shimmer, a scattering of sparkling seeds, and fresh green leaves that create a beautiful contrast with the rich color of the pomegranate. This subject is all about building tangible volume and working with complex texture. Step by step, we'll explore the mechanics of clean highlights and delicate reflected lights — the details that make fruit on paper feel so alive, juicy, and captivating.

In this lesson, we will:

  • we'll plan the composition and place every element thoughtfully;
  • we'll transfer the drawing onto the sheet using the realism grid;
  • we'll master layered, step-by-step work;
  • we'll learn to mix complex, lively hues;
  • we'll convey volume and a glossy texture through color;
  • we'll work through light, shadows, and reflected lights;
  • we'll place highlights and bring out the details;
  • we'll create a sense of depth and give the fruit a solid, grounded presence on the surface.
Lesson 8 — Juicy Pomegranate
Lesson 9
"Delicate Iris"
Duration: 4 hours
Petals as delicate as woven light stand out softly against a deep, dark background. The graceful curves and lacy edges of the blossom are captivating in their intricate natural architecture. We'll learn to capture the incredible fragility of the flower, work with soft light, and guide the viewer's eye through expressive contrasts.

In this lesson, we will:

  • we'll explore the qualities of a vertical composition;
  • we'll build the drawing using the realism grid;
  • we'll master layered, step-by-step work;
  • we'll learn to convey soft light and the transparency of petals;
  • we'll break down mixing complementary colors;
  • we'll use a dark background to emphasize the flower's volume and expressiveness;
  • we'll refine elegant details and the wavy edges of the petals.
Lesson 9 — Delicate Iris
Lesson 10
"Fiery Freesia"
Duration: 2 hours 50 minutes
Petals that seem lit from within burst with warm light against a deep, dark backdrop. That bold contrast creates an incredible sense of energy and draws the eye to the graceful curve of the stem with its lush buds. We'll explore a completely new type of lighting and learn to ignite real sparks of color on paper — all while keeping every hue transparent and pure.

In this lesson, we will:

  • we'll go over the principles of vertical composition;
  • we'll build the drawing using the realism grid;
  • we'll reinforce our layered, step-by-step working skills;
  • we'll learn to convey the effect of backlighting;
  • we'll show bright light and deep shadows while keeping color clean;
  • we'll use a dark background to amplify the flower's glow;
  • we'll refine the foreground details and create depth with soft blurring of the background buds.
Lesson 10 — Fiery Freesia
Lesson 11
"Green Peas in a Mug"
Duration: 4 hours
Freshly picked pods, rinsed with cool water, nestle cozily in an old enamel vessel against a backdrop of textured planks. This subject is full of the mood of a summer dacha porch and the scent of midsummer. We'll work with a monochrome palette, uncovering the richness of natural hues. You'll see how an everyday green opens up into a wealth of nuances, and you'll create a wonderfully lively, tangible sketch.

In this lesson, we will:

  • we'll break down how to draw ellipses in perspective;
  • we'll master working with a monochrome palette;
  • we'll learn to build rich hues through layering;
  • we'll capture the texture of old wood;
  • we'll enhance the expressiveness of the artwork through contrast;
  • we'll create depth by developing both the foreground and background;
  • we'll show the sheen and texture of a metal surface;
  • we'll draw three-dimensional water droplets with a wet effect.
Lesson 11 — Green Peas in a Mug
Lesson 12
"Still Life with Grapes"
Duration: 4 hours
The deep hues of ripe fruit create a gentle contrast with the cool texture of aged wood. There is a special kind of aesthetic in this subject — where nature's velvety softness meets the rough, time-worn surfaces. We'll learn to convey that harmony, building an expressive and truly lifelike illustration step by step.

In this lesson, we will:

  • we'll break down two-point angular perspective;
  • we'll learn to construct the form and perspective of objects;
  • we'll capture the texture of aged wood;
  • we'll show the volume and matte surface of the berries;
  • we'll create a harmony of warm and cool tones;
  • we'll learn to work with soft transitions and crisp edges;
  • we'll reinforce our layering skills, moving from broad areas of color to fine details.
Lesson 12 — Still Life with Grapes
Lesson 13
Conclusion
Our course is coming to a close. Now is the perfect time to look back, see how far you've come, reflect on everything you've accomplished, and find inspiration for your next vibrant artworks.
Lesson 13 — Conclusion

Course instructor

Poliksenia Chetin
Poliksenia Chetin
Marker realism artist
  • My first degree is in architectural technology, and my second is in graphic design.
  • I've been drawing with alcohol-based markers for over 8 years, specializing in marker realism.
  • I founded the art supply brand Poliartdesign and have been growing it in the international market since 2018.
  • I create courses, intensives, and marathons that have helped hundreds of artists master the technique of marker realism.
  • My favorite subjects to draw are botanicals, architecture, food illustration, and capturing the beauty of all kinds of textures.
  • In 2020, I won the "Artist of the Year by Audience Vote" award from Sketchmarker.

Course materials

Paper

  • Marker paper (single-sided preferred)
  • Size: A5 (apx. 6" x 8"), A4 (apx. 8" x 12"), or a square from 15×15 cm (apx. 6" x 6")

Alcohol-based markers

Copic, Sketchmarker, Sonnet, Marvy Le Plume, Touch, Winsor & Newton ProMarker, Finecolour, or other similar markers will work.

Main palette (or similar shades):

  • Grays and neutrals: C1, C5, W8
  • Yellows and oranges: Y000, Y04, Y08, Y15, Y28, Y35, Y38, YR16, YR31
  • Reds and pinks: R12, R24, R46, RV29
  • Greens: YG17, YG23, YG95, G85, G99
  • Blues: B000, B23, B26, B32, B97, BG93
  • Purples: V04, V22, BV25
  • Browns: E08, E18, E37, E41, E44, E49
Marker color swatches for the course
Color swatches for the markers you'll need in the course

Colored pencils

Wax-based colored pencils work great (Derwent Coloursoft or similar are recommended). Main colors:

  • White
  • Lilac
  • Blue
  • Light Blue
  • Terracotta
  • Light Green
  • Yellow
  • Orange
  • Red

Fineliners

  • Black waterproof: 0.1, 0.3, and 0.6 mm
  • Colored waterproof: red, green, yellow, and blue

Additional materials

  • White acrylic marker 0.2–0.6 mm or white gel pen
  • Simple HB or B graphite pencil
  • Soft eraser
  • Tracing paper, or a plastic sleeve, or a clear plastic cover / transparent film (1–2 sheets)
  • Permanent marker in any color
  • Printed references

Choose your plan

I Draw It Myself
  • 8 realistic artworks: from delicate flowers to juicy berries and fruit
  • 13 lessons: theory + practice + artistic tips and tricks
  • Machine translated subtitles: English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Greek, Polish, Portuguese, Hungarian, Chinese, Indonesian.
  • "Course Unfreeze" — the option to start learning at a time that works for you
  • Access to artwork analyses from other participants
  • Lifetime access to course materials
  • Review of your work and answers to your questions in the comments for 60 days from the moment you start the course
  • A personal one-hour online consultation with the course expert
  • +$20 bonus dollars! Can be spent on a course at the next marathon. Expires in 3 months
With Support
  • 8 realistic artworks: from delicate flowers to luscious berries and fruit
  • 13 lessons: theory, practice, and artistic tips and tricks
  • Machine translated subtitles: English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Greek, Polish, Portuguese, Hungarian, Chinese, Indonesian.
  • "Course Unfreeze" — the option to start learning whenever it's convenient for you
  • The ability to watch artwork analyses from other participants
  • Lifetime access to the course materials
  • Review of your work and answers to your questions in the comments for 60 days from the moment you start the course
  • A personal one-hour online consultation with the course expert
  • +$20 bonus dollars! You can use them toward a course purchase at the next marathon. They expire after 3 months
VIP
  • 8 realistic artworks: from delicate flowers to luscious berries and fruit
  • 13 lessons: theory, practice, and artistic tips and tricks
  • Machine translated subtitles: English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Greek, Polish, Portuguese, Hungarian, Chinese, Indonesian.
  • "Course Unfreeze" — the option to start learning whenever it's convenient for you
  • The ability to watch artwork analyses from other participants
  • Lifetime access to the course materials
  • Review of your work and answers to your questions in the comments for 60 days from the moment you start the course
  • A personal one-hour online consultation with the course expert
  • +$20 bonus dollars! You can use them toward a course purchase at the next marathon. They expire after 3 months

Frequently Asked Questions

Absolutely! Anyone can draw! It's simply a skill that develops with practice. Our course is structured from simple to complex, so that anyone can complete it — even with zero experience. Throughout the course, you'll gradually build your hand and learn to draw, step by step, through the practice of creating the course artworks.

At the end of the lesson, you'll post a photo of your work. The instructor will have the option to leave a text comment, a graphic comment (notes on the drawing), or an audio comment.

At the bottom of the final lesson, there will be a comments section where you can ask any questions about the course.

If you're on a plan without feedback, it all depends on your own personal pace as you work through the lessons.

On plans with feedback, we actively work through the lessons over two months from the moment you "unfreeze" the course.

In general, I recommend going through the course at a relaxed pace. Enjoy the process as much as possible.

Yes, this course will be valuable for both beginners and those who are more experienced.

It's never too late to learn to draw. In our school, 30% of students are over 50 — and they draw with joy, develop their skills and creative thinking, and feel younger in heart and mind!

Still have questions?