Programs

The Foster Museum holds a variety of programs at 940 Commercial Street, Palo Alto, CA.
Advanced registration is required for most programs; see details on several unique programs below.

Nature Journaling: Explore, Express, Connect

FALL Series:
Sundays OCTOBER 12, NOVEMBER 16, DECEMBER 14
10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

FEE: $60 PER SESSION
Advanced purchase only: $160/three-session package

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. In all sessions, Kate will be available for questions and individual instruction during field journaling time. All skill levels are welcome; "art" is in the experience itself.

Introduction to Drawing - Led by Agnes Wong

4-Week Series: SEPTEMBER 3, 10, 17 and 24
Wednesdays from 1:00 - 3:00 pm
FEE: $250 for the Series

The operative word for this introduction to drawing series is JOY, sure to be a component of each class. No prior experience is needed, just a willing and interested heart! 

Over four weeks, you'll build foundational drawing skills, starting with tool basics, guidelines, and developing realistic shading techniques. You'll learn to simplify forms, draw from observation, and master proportion and angle estimation to complete a final drawing from life.

Wild Wonder - Nature Journaling Conference

September 10-14, 2025
LIVE AT THE FOSTER MUSEUM ON SEP 14

The Foster Museum partners with the mission-aligned Wild Wonder Foundation to offer this annual multi-day nature journaling conference and encourage nature connection and conservation through attention, curiosity, art, science, and community. Now in its 7th year, it is the largest international event of its kind, and you're invitied to attend!

In addition to five days of live online classes with video access passes, there is a special event at The Foster Museum with John Muir Laws on Sunday evening, September 14 (limited capacity). 

New York Central Park birder and author Christian Cooper will talk about his recent books Better Living Through Birding and The Urban Owls, and Amy Tan will join Christian for a conversation about connecting with nature through birding and wonder. A reception with hearty appetizers will precede the talks, a special owl guest from Native Bird Connections will be present early in the evening, and author book signings will be available after the talks

Storytime with Anna!

TWO SUNDAYS per month
10:30 - 11:00am
Free admission

Upcoming dates:
Sundays: Sep 7, Sep 21, Oct 5, Oct 19, Nov 2

Join us for a 30-minute adventure led by Anna! We'll start with a 10-minute arts and crafts activity or imaginative play, then review museum rules. Enjoy some movement and song, explore the galleries, and settle in for a short nature-themed story. Wrap up with a scavenger hunt or creative time at our art tables.

Art Making at The Foster Museum

One Thursday per month
1:00 - 4:00pm
Free admission, tea service provided

Upcoming Dates:
Thursdays: Aug 21, Sep 18, Oct 16, Nov 20, Dec 11

All skill levels are welcome to find inspiration from Tony Foster's watercolor wilderness Journeys within the galleries. Bring your own art supplies, such as graphite pencils or watercolor sets, nature journals or sketch pads, or borrow our colored pencil provisions. Spend time in our meditative galleries, looking closely at Foster's masterpieces and making your own! Tables, seating, and tea service are provided!

Advance registration is suggested; walk-ins are welcome.