Description
Nature connection, creativity and mindfulness come together in the practice of nature journaling in this two-day workshop that will give participants the skills and space to connect to themselves, to nature and to others through nature journaling. Participants will learn a variety of techniques in watercoloring, stamp-carving, drawing and writing and be given prompts and guidance to create their own “conversation with Nature” in the way that feels authentic to themselves. We will spend time at Sitka’s large nature preserve, as well as in the classroom, observing, appreciating, reflecting on and celebrating the nature around us through writing, drawing and basic watercoloring.
About the Instructor
She facilitates joy, belonging and healing by encouraging her students to enjoy art as a process more than an outcome, and to prioritize creative expression as a crucial component of well-being. Her love of nature, creativity and mindfulness are woven into her calm, supportive teaching style.
Learn More
elizabethmhiggins.com
Materials List
You will need to bring:
A journal or sketchbook with smooth paper that is heavy enough to hold a little water for watercoloring. We will talk more about journals in class, but For this workshop I recommend wire bound sketchbooks or mixed media journals such as a Strathmore Visual Journal Mixed Media Journal, 9 x 12 inches.
Professional grade watercolor paints in tubes: at least one of each primary color of red, yellow and blue. I prefer and recommend Daniel Smith or M. Graham watercolors.
Recommended colors: Quinacridone Rose, Hansa Yellow, New Gamboge, Ultramarine Blue
Optional colors: Phthalo Blue, Cobalt Blue, Alizarin Crimson, Quinacridone Gold
Any other colors you have or are intrigued by
A small travel palette with a lid and a seal. I like the Mijello air-tight watercolor palette with 18 wells. We will set up our palette and paints in class. If you already have a palette with watercolors in it, bring that to class instead.
Brushes: Size 8 and Size 10 round watercolor brushes and any other watercolor brushes you have, including a small flat brush (optional)
Clean rags or paper towels
Pens: Permanent, waterproof black pens with fine and medium tips. Be sure that it is actually waterproof! Pitt and Micron artist pens are waterproof.
Optional pens: a water-soluble Flair Paper-Mate black felt tip pen, any gel pens or paint pens you have and like using
Pencils (#2) and kneaded eraser, I also like having a white art eraser
Stamp-carving materials by Speedball: Speedy-cut carving rubber in white or pink, and a carving tool. Bring several pieces of the carving rubber to play with!
A water bottle for watercoloring away from the classroom
Bring a backpack or other tote for carrying it all in as we explore the woods and river nearby.
A small portable camp stool if you wish, or a small blanket or pad for sitting on the ground
Provided by instructors:
Instructor will provide extra paints and brushes, mixing plates, extra carving tools, handouts and water-soluble pens