Introduction to Nature Journaling Workshop and the 5 Basic Component Skills of Drawing.
FREE 2 hr interactive workshop. All materials are supplied. We explore: What is Nature Journaling? Why do it? How to Get Started and Keep it going!
There is a certain magic to discovering nature through observation and curiosity, and then journaling in words and drawings to engrave into memory a detailed experience. Sitting in nature and focusing on the imagery, sounds, smells, textures… simply put, is awe inspiring.
Nature Journaling is the sweet spot between Art, Science, Observation and Curiosity. Not all about art. Nor is it specifically about science. It is about looking closely.
Many people convey apprehension at the thought of artistic attempts, expressing “I cannot draw.” Or, “I have no talent.” Be reassured, nature journaling is not about pretty pictures, although learning to draw can be one aspect of recording observations. Artistic representation of nature has been practiced since prehistoric people made marks on cave walls to create images. Anyone can draw as well as a caveman. “Drawing talent” is a learned skill.
Most important is getting out in nature, slowing down to notice, to wonder and be curious about your observations.
To get started with Nature Journaling, Terri's 3-keys are:
- Get outside to be in nature and observe.
- Connect and meetup with other people also interested in a nature journal journey.
- Start with minimal supplies.
Are you interested in learning more about Nature Journaling? In the workshop, we will “bring nature in” for a hands-on in-classroom experience talking about slowing down our busy mind to “see”, and using the methodology developed by Betty Edwards (professor, author, “Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain”), we’ll step through her “5 basic component skills to drawing.”
Terri had Dr. Edwards in college in 1979, the year "Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain" was published. Although Terri pursed a technical career, Dr. Edward's college class left a lasting impression. In retirement when Terri took some "art classes", the experience of Dr Edward's theory and techniques re-surfaced. Terri realized the "5 basic component skills of drawing" could be combined with looking closely at nature to help adults slow down busy minds, to look closely to really "see".
The workshop has been given at Eaton Canyon Nature Center, Stough Canyon Nature Center, Joslyn Adult Center and Deukmejian Wilderness Park's Stone Barn Nature Center. The Workshop prepares attendees to get outside to explore nature thru curiosity... to look closely and record their observations in a journal. "Next Steps" include attending Meetups that are held at various locations or finding time to engage in the "art" of curiosity and writing in words and pictures in a journal.
The Presenter, Terri Mando is a retired Aerospace and Information Technology professional. She started nature journaling in August 2019. During the pandemic, she studied and learned from John Muir Laws’ books, website and classes. Because there was no local nature journaling club, she started one in March 2020. In April 2024, she became a Wild Wonder Foundation Ambassador to share Nature Journaling as a way to more deeply connect with the natural world. She presents free workshops and leads free outdoor meetups at various locations.