Nature Journaling and the Art of Observation

In this class, the instructor will guide you in developing a practice of nature journaling—using words and sketches to record observations, reflections, and questions about nature. We will start in the Folk School classroom with time for participants to share their interests, goals, and ideas for what to include in a nature journal. Then we will move outdoors to make observations and record them in our journals. We will finish with time together sharing observations, questions, and resources. If weather is unfavorable for outdoor exploration, we will bring nature indoors for our observation time.

Registration Includes

Participants will go home with increased observational skills, a new entry in their nature journal, familiarity with some basic sketching techniques, and information about resources that are available to use for identifying our local plants and animals.

You should bring…

• Paper that you can handle easily outdoors—a sketch pad, a journal, notebook, or clipboard with sheets of paper
• Pencils: at least one soft (B, HB or 2H) and one hard (5H or 6H)
• Optional Tools: eraser, pencil sharpener, small ruler
• A container to carry your supplies: Day pack or fanny pack works well
• Clothing appropriate for outdoor exploration/weather conditions
• Optional: water and/or snacks

Skill Level

This class is open to anyone who enjoys being outdoors and wants to learn more about the world around us, including beginners, those who think they can’t draw, and experienced journalers who are looking for opportunities to share observations with others.

Best for Ages…

18 and older.

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