Introduction to the Art and Science of Nature Journaling – 3-Week Event at Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve

Join naturalist-artist Jack Hobe for an introduction to the art and science of nature journaling! Participants will get a hands-on experience trying out the six “tools” of nature journaling: Observation, Questions, Connections; and Drawing, Writing and Quantification. Each lesson is a short slideshow and lecture followed by an ~ 1 hour field session for practicing our new skills. We will be using the beautiful BHWP property as our journaling space – wildflowers and animals abound!

Note: This program takes place over three weekends. The segment of the program corresponding to this event page is highlighted in orange below.

Week 1 – Introduction to Nature Journaling: (April 26) 

Our nature journaling crash-course begins with an overview of the basic tools journalers use to record their observations and thoughts on paper. Starting with observation, we will use drawing, writing and quantification to thoroughly document our subjects. We will then transition to asking questions and thinking about connections. After taking this class, you will be equipped with a fundamental observational skillset to use throughout the rest of this class and in your everyday life! This program will begin with a short indoor lecture portion, and then transition to an outside sketching session. See the course description for details regarding the appropriate sketching supplies you will need to bring.

Week 2 – Questioning Your Questions – Scientific Inquiry (May 3)

Our second class will focus on the fascinating application of scientific thinking and methods to natural subjects through a nature journal lens. We will learn how to ask probing and specific questions that are scientifically testable, diving deep into “rabbit holes” of inquiry much as a curious scientist would. Following the scientific method, you will practice coming up with answers to your questions through hypothesizing and further observation. This class will begin with a short indoor lecture portion, and then transition to an outside sketching session. See the course description for details regarding the appropriate sketching supplies you will need to bring.

Week 3 – Using Art in Your Nature Journal and Wrap-up (May 10)

In our final week, we will cover the basic drawing skills needed to portray the flora and fauna around us on paper! Artistic techniques are an important part of nature journaling, but may be intimidating for first-time nature journalers or folks who don’t have much drawing experience. However, art and science are fully compatible disciplines that can take your nature journaling to new heights! For students who may not have as much experience in art or don’t feel that they are very good at drawing, this particular activity will be helpful for developing basic skills to portray a subject on paper. This class will begin with a short indoor lecture portion, and then transition to an outside sketching session. See the course description for details regarding the appropriate sketching supplies you will need to bring.

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Please note that guests will have to bring their own nature journaling supplies, and will need to dress in outdoor gear that is weather-appropriate. Hopefully the April showers will cooperate, but natural objects will be provided indoors if the weather doesn’t stay sunny. A list of required and recommended materials for the series will be emailed to registrants beforehand.

This workshop takes place over 3 weekends. The workshop on this page is Week 2 – Questions and Writing. Please visit the BHWP website at the link below to register.