Unlike teaching, laboratory research, or field biology, scientific illustration is not a career choice typically presented to biology students. One of the objectives at ArtPlantae is to present scientific illustration as a career option. This is in direct response to the fact that the cohort to which I belonged in the late 80s/early 90s was never told that scientific illustration was an option. Biology students need to know that this option exists. In light of this objective, I would like to share with you two videos about three scientific illustrators — Mark Klinger at Carnegie Museum of Natural History and Molly Kelly Ryan & Mary Parrish at the Smithsonian National Natural History Museum.
Be sure to visit the websites below to learn more about both museums and to gain more insight into scientific illustration as a career.
Are there programs in scientific illustration? You bet. But let’s open this up to discussion. If you completed one of these programs, please share your experiences with our readers.
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Mark Klinger: Scientific Illustrator, Carnegie Museum of Natural History
Scientific Illustration at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History Interviews with Molly Kelly Ryan and Mary Parrish
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Suggested Resources:
Carnegie Museum of Natural History
Department of Botany, Smithsonian Institution
Department of Paleobiology Paleo Art Website
Guild of Natural Science Illustrators
ArtPlantae Today 
I loved these videos by the Smithsonian illustrators. Unfortunately I too never knew about scientific illustration until later in life, but it is never too late and I am now illustrating birds. The Smithsonian Institution has very kindly allowed me to study skins there. The more natural history illustration is encouraged the better!
How old were you when you decided to pursue this area? I’m only asking because I could sure use some hope and encouragement that it really is never too late!
Jenevora – Having had the good fortune to meet you, view your paintings and watch you work, it is difficult to imagine that you have not been drawing and painting your entire life. Your work is wonderful. Thank you for your comments and for your support of this subject.