Ankara Bölgesi Bitki Türlerinin Tanıtımına Yönelik Botanik İllüstrasyon: Bir Grafik Tasarım Uygulaması

Abstract

Botanical illustration, a visual expression in botany, reached its golden age in 18th-century Europe. In Turkey, scientific progress in this field has developed mainly over the last 25 years. Despite this relatively short history, advancements through associations, independent artists, communities, and state-supported projects have brought it close to European standards. This progress is significant not only scientifically but also for preserving geographical heritage and transmitting cultural knowledge, as Turkey hosts rich flora, including about one-third endemic species, some endangered.

This thesis aims to create a botanical illustration integrated with a graphic design product to introduce and describe plants that are hard to access and need protection. Adopting an experimental approach, it contributes to literature by providing a comprehensive Turkish resource on botanical illustration.

Qualitative methods were used, including literature review and document analysis. Participation in workshops, exhibitions, and events was carried out, alongside interviews with academics from various universities involved in botany and botanical illustration. For the practical application, a region in Ankara was selected, focusing on an endemic and endangered species. A digital illustration of “Ornithogalum demirizianum” from Haymana was created, alongside an exhibition unit, label, informative card, and poster.

The thesis offers a foundational resource in Turkish botanical illustration literature and presents an experimental approach while producing graphic design products aimed at raising plant awareness among viewers.