Work with Terri Mando: Nature Journaling Instructor & Docent
I help beginners of all ages slow down, observe, and connect with the natural world through the art and science of nature journaling. My mentor, John Muir Laws, famously showed us that nature journaling is about focused attention, not artistic talent. Drawing on my background as an Aerospace and IT professional combined with over 15 years of docent and field experience, I teach students how to see the world through both an analytical and creative lens, with curiosity.
In college, I took Art for Non-Art Majors at Cal State Long Beach from Betty Edwards, author of Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain. Many people still believe her book is a definitive way to learn to draw--her class left a life-long impression. Although I pursued technical careers, when I retired and took some art classes, Betty's methods swept over me. I use her 5-basic-component-skills-of-drawing in my workshops.
Even since a child I've been drawn to nature. During a difficult time in life I discovered Nature Journaling. It made a profound difference in my life to recover from a deeply felt loss. I know from experience that the mental health benefits of spending focused attention in nature can help others too. I want to share these mental health benefits with others.
I am a Wild Wonder Foundation trained Nature Journal Educator, UC ANR Certified California Naturalist and an iNaturalist Ambassador. My goal is to connect people with nature, to step outside and slow down to look closely and record their observations.
Whether you are looking to host a workshop for children, an engaging adult community program, or a specialized nature event in the East San Fernando Valley, West San Gabriel Valley and Greater Los Angeles area, I can provide structured, accessible, and inspiring instruction.
What I Offer
- Beginner Workshops: Fun, judgment-free introductions to nature journaling for absolute beginners, teaching core techniques in observation, sketching, and written notes.
- Youth Programs: Engaging, interactive sessions designed specifically for kids and families to spark curiosity about local wildlife and plants.
- Specialized & Ad-hoc Programs: Custom-tailored workshops focusing on specific botanical or ecological themes, perfect for nature centers, gardens, and community groups.
Experience & Qualifications
- Experienced School Docent: Volunteering at the Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden since 2011, including 7 years as School Docent Co-Chair.
- Community Leader: Facilitator of free community nature journaling meetups across Southern California, including partnerships with the Stough Canyon Nature Center (Burbank), Stone Barn Nature Center (Glendale), and Arlington Garden (Pasadena).
- Technical Precision Meets Creativity: Over a decades of rigorous IT and Aerospace experience gives me a unique framework for teaching structured, logical field observation.
Let's Collaborate
Are you looking to bring a nature journaling program to your school, garden, non-profit, or private event? I would love to discuss how we can work together.
ð§ Contact Me: ShadowHillsNCJ@gmail.com
ð Location: Available for bookings throughout Burbank, Glendale, Pasadena; East San Fernando Valley, West San Gabriel Valley and the Greater Los Angeles area.
ð Location: Available for bookings throughout Burbank, Glendale, Pasadena; East San Fernando Valley, West San Gabriel Valley and the Greater Los Angeles area.
What to Expect in a Workshop
My workshops are designed to remove the fear of the blank page. We focus on curiosity and observation rather than making a "masterpiece." Here is what you and your group can expect:
- No Art Experience Required: I lean into Betty Edwards' 5-basic-component-skills-of-drawing and teach the John Muir Laws philosophy—nature journaling is a tool for looking closer, not a test of artistic talent. If you can make a mark on paper, you can do this. You can explore poetry, sketching, writing, asking questions, and doing further research later.
- A Blend of Science and Art: Drawing on my background in aerospace, IT, docent training, and my own learning by doing, I teach students how to face the blank page and get started, ask scientific questions and explore many ways to put their observations on paper.
- Structured, Hands-On Guidance: We don't just sit and draw. Every workshop includes an introduction covering what is nature journaling, how to get started and how to keep up your own personal practice, as well as several guided observation exercises and group discussions.
- Simple, Accessible Materials: You don't need expensive gear. Participants only need a few basic supplies to get started. For workshops, all materials are supplied. You are invited to bring your own journal or sketchbook.