By Coral Gables Gazette staff
Families seeking a creative weekend outing in Coral Gables will find inspiration at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, which will host a hands-on art class on Saturday, July 19, focused on drawing and painting butterflies in watercolor. The guided session, led by artist and educator Dan Bondroff, runs from 10:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. and is open to children ages 7 to 10 accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Designed as a shared experience, the class teaches foundational drawing and watercolor techniques in a relaxed and supportive environment. All materials are provided, and no prior art experience is needed.
Art, nature, and discovery in tandem
The two-hour session will begin with a step-by-step drawing demonstration, during which students will learn how to sketch butterflies using basic shapes and observational techniques. Bondroff will then guide participants through the watercolor phase, introducing methods such as color mixing, layering, and applying light washes to capture the delicate hues and patterns of butterfly wings.
Throughout the morning, children and adults will receive individualized support as they work through each stage of their project. The class balances technical instruction with opportunities for creativity and self-expression, and students will complete a finished piece of artwork to take home.
Butterflies provide an ideal subject for young artists—colorful, symmetrical, and rich in natural detail. In the lush surroundings of Fairchild Garden, the class invites participants to observe and appreciate the forms found in nature while learning how to recreate them on paper.
Practicing artist and dedicated educator
Dan Bondroff, the workshop instructor, holds a B.S. in Art and Visual Communication from Towson University. His studio work often explores fleeting natural moments—glimpses of wildlife, shifts in light, or subtle changes in landscape—through pastels and watercolor. He brings that same attentiveness to his teaching, encouraging students to observe closely and engage thoughtfully with their subject matter.
Bondroff has taught art to students of all ages and is known for his patient, encouraging style. “I enjoy guiding students as they make their own discoveries,” he notes. His workshops combine structure with flexibility, ensuring that each participant builds confidence while developing individual artistic voice.
Ticketing and logistics
The workshop is open to children ages 7 to 10, each accompanied by an adult who remains for the full duration. Tickets are available through Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden’s website and are priced as follows:
- Member Adult: $25
- Member Child: $10
- Non-Member Adult: $35
- Non-Member Child: $15
E-tickets will be delivered by email upon registration. Guests are encouraged to check spam folders if they do not receive a confirmation and to bring printed or digital tickets to the garden entrance on the day of the event. All art supplies are included in the ticket price.
The class takes place in an indoor, climate-controlled art space within the garden. Seating is limited to ensure individualized attention and a comfortable environment for both children and adults. Advance registration is strongly recommended.
Creative connection in a botanical setting
As one of South Florida’s premier cultural institutions, Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden offers more than just world-class horticultural exhibits. With a year-round calendar of classes, camps, and workshops, the garden serves as a hub for nature-based learning and community engagement.
The July 19 art class reflects that mission, combining hands-on creativity with an appreciation for the natural world. Participants will leave not only with a new watercolor painting, but also with a greater understanding of the techniques behind it—and a shared memory of creating something beautiful together.
Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is located at 10901 Old Cutler Road in Coral Gables. To register for the class or view additional family programming, visit fairchildgarden.org.
