Nature Journaling: Explore, Express, Connect
Nature journal enthusiast Kate Rutter sketching out in the field
Summer Series:
Tuesdays: June 4, 11, 18 (12-4pm)
Celebrate the beauty and wonder of nature through journaling, a magical blend of art and science that deepens our connection with nature. The focus of this series, led by Kate Rutter, is on visually expressing curiosity about what we observe rather than creating polished botanical art. All skill levels are welcome; "art" is in the experience itself.
The three-session series can be taken together or individually. In all sessions, Kate will be available for questions and individual instruction during field journaling time.
FEE: $60 per session or $160 for the series. An optional $20 kit is available for purchase.
Session 1: Exploring Wonder with a Nature Journal
Learn basic nature journaling methods, including words, pictures, and numbers to ask questions, track data, and explore form through gesture, contour, negative space, and diagrammatic sketching. Apply these skills in the field at a nearby location. Optional prompts will inspire you to journal during interim weeks.
Session 2: Deepening Observations and Visual Expression in your Nature Journal
Explore color and basic watercolor techniques, including color theory, mixing, matching, and using color to communicate sensory observations and emotions. Practice journaling in both field and studio settings, sharing and selecting prompts for ongoing work.
Session 3: Celebrating the Joy of Place in Your Nature Journal
Opening again at The Foster Museum, the class will find inspiration in Tony Foster's watercolor wilderness Journeys, identifying elements that communicate a place's power. We'll learn simple landscape sketching, basic map drawing, and ways to document sound, smell, and touch. During a field trip to a local nature preserve, we'll experiment with poetic expression. The final sharing session will discuss next steps for continuing your nature journal practice.
Cancellation Policy: Full refund (less processing fees) with a 7-day advanced notice, no refund thereafter unless the spot can be filled from the waitlist. Please e-mail events@thefoster.org to cancel.
Click a series below to sign up:
About the instructor
Kate Rutter is an avid nature journaler, urban naturalist, educator, and native plant enthusiast who enlivens nature-human connection through sketching, observation, and curiosity. A lifelong sketcher with an experimental and rambunctious visual practice, Kate’s education work spans online teaching, corporate and nonprofit trainings and conferences, nature journal workshops at public & private gardens and nurseries, and serving as an adjunct professor at the California College of the Arts. Kate is a Certified California Naturalist, a board member of the Wild Wonder Foundation, and holds a B.A. in Studio Art from Wellesley College. She instas at @katerutter and blogs at www.intelleto.com.
