Thursday, Feb. 17 | Nature Journaling course begins

Drawing by Taylor Scamehorn

Basics

• Dates: Feb. 17, 24, March 3, 10
• Time: 6 to 7:30 p.m.
• Location: Online
• Fee: $60 for Sanctuary members, $70 for non-members
• Audience: Adults, older children
• Register

Learning how to keep a nature journal of your observations can help deepen your connection to art, science, and place. An upcoming four-week, online workshop hosted by the W.K. Kellogg Bird Sanctuary offers an introduction to ecological principles and drawing techniques.

About

The interactive series, Nature Journaling: Blending Art and Science, will be held on Zoom from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on four consecutive Thursdays: Feb. 17 and 24, and March 3 and 10. Register at bit.ly/kbs-nature-journal2022 to get the meeting link and password.

The course is partly an introduction to ecology and partly an art class. KBS scientists will introduce participants to ecology at several spatial scales, including landscapes, communities and species. And, local artist Taylor Scamehorn will teach art techniques using graphite and colored pencils to draw plants, animals or other natural objects.

Scamehorn says, “Art and science overlap continually. Both are sparked by curiosity, both are interested in proving observed phenomena, both champion accuracy, and to achieve that, require you to explore different ways of looking at something to discover more about it. Through my scientific method of drawing, you will learn how to trust your eyes, practice precision, and engage your curiosity using these principles.”

Each class will begin with a presentation on the ecology of native plants and landscapes. Participants will spend the remainder of class learning how to document their observations of nature through drawing and nature journaling.

Schedule and registration

Class topics by week are:

• Feb. 17: Introduction to nature journaling
• Feb. 24: Landscape and ecosystem ecology
• March 3: Community ecology
• March 10: Species ecology

Register by Tuesday, Feb. 1, for discounted course fees of $50 for Sanctuary members or $60 for non-members. Beginning Feb. 2, registration is $55 for members and $65 for non-members. Registration closes on Feb. 13.

Questions? Please call (269) 671-2510 or email birdsanctuary@kbs.msu.edu.