Join naturalist-artist Jack Hobe for an introduction to the art and science of nature journaling! Participants will get hands-on experience trying out the six “tools” of nature journaling – Observation, Questions, Connections; and Drawing, Writing and Quantification – while exploring the intersection between the fields of art and science. 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 preserve property as our journaling space – wildflowers and animals abound!
*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*
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.
Jack Hobe is a wildlife artist, birder and freelance educator living in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. He enjoys sharing the wonder of the outdoors and the practice of nature journaling with the public through nature workshops. Jack uses a small sketchbook and a set of watercolors to portray the flora and fauna around him from life, and enjoys traveling around the Bucks County area to observe our rich natural heritage. He has a Bachelor’s in Wildlife and Conservation Science from Oregon State University, and is currently working on a certificate in Natural Science Illustration. Visit Jack’s website www.jackhobe.com to see his portfolio, wildlife art products and upcoming workshops.
Additional Information: Online registration for this program closes 12 hours before the start of the class. If you need help with registration, please email education@bhwp.org. If you need assistance with your membership code, please contact development@bhwp.org.
Registration Fees: $65 members ($78 non members)
