Approaching to scientific botanical illustration examples from different countries by graphical terms and the development in its historical course

The birth of botanical scientific illustrations dates back to the times when people started examine the plants in search of remedy. At first, botanical illustrations which can be seen on cave walls, reliefs, papyrus scrolls and other extant works were not produced with aesthetical concerns, nor in a systematical order. With the rise in number of the plants having been discovered during geographical explorations, botanical illustrations were relied on in recording, classifying and documentation of the the plants. Even though photography has reached a very advanced level, this type of illustration with which information relating to sections, paces of growth et cet are given is still in high demand. In this study qualitative data analysis method is applied. By conducting and through literature research during the data collection processes, historical course of development of scientific botanical illustrations, works and artists relating to this field of study in the world and in Turkey are depicted in a chronological order in the study. 8 scientific botanical illustrations selected from various countries set the sample basis of the study. Selected examples of scientific botanical illustrations are approached in the "findings" section of the study from the perspective of elements and principles of graphic design, which, at the same time, constitute the basic elements of visual literacy. In the "results" section of the study, results relating to the findings of the 8 scientific botanical illustrations included in the study and the findings obtained from the study in general are given. It is concluded that the examined scientific botanical illustrations are given in appropriate form and shape and together with preferred colors, drawing techniques and correct light-shadow balance realistic illustrations were achieved. Like in other products of graphic design, it is seen that, in terms of representing the plants and transmitting the data about them, scientific botanical illustrations are a branch of graphic design, rather than solely painting. Keywords: Graphic Design, Scientific Botanical Illustrations, Illustration, Plants