Thursday, Feb. 16 | Nature Journaling Course Begins

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.

The basics

• Time and dates: 6 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 16 and 23, March 2 and 9
• Location: Online
• Audience: Adults, older children
• Course fee: $60/Sanctuary members, $70/non-members

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. 16 and 23, and March 2 and 9. Register at bit.ly/kbs-nature-journal2023 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. 16: Introduction to nature journaling
• Feb. 23: Population ecology
• March 2: Community ecology
• March 9: Landscape and ecosystem ecology

Register by Wednesday, Feb. 1, for discounted course fees of $50 for Sanctuary members or $60 for non-members. Beginning Feb. 2, registration is $60 for members and $70 for non-members. Registration closes on Feb. 13.

For more information about the Sanctuary, visit birdsanctuary.kbs.msu.edu. Direct questions to birdsanctuary@kbs.msu.edu or (269) 671-2510.