Drawing Nature: Painting Skills with Michael Boardman

Wildlife artist and Maine Master Naturalist Michael Boardman will teach two concurrent classes (April 8 and 22) paring nature journaling and art skills with natural history subjects. Time will be spent both in the classroom to learn techniques and materials, and in the field putting them to use and directly observing nature. Nature journaling is a great way to learn and meditate about the world around us, and drawing what we see helps us better understand and explore the wonder of the natural world.

Seeing the World in Black & White (April 8): This program will focus on basic drawing skills and concepts: shapes, value, contrast and texture as they relate to the natural world. We start with trees and work up to wildlife mounts, with some work on drawing birds/wildlife quickly from life. The class will be partially inside with outside time to try out the lessons.

Watercolor Wonder (April 22): This program will introduce you to using watercolor in your nature journal. We’ll go over tools, colors, paper types and practice some basic techniques for atmospheric mini landscapes and creating depth and weight in three dimensions. Demos and teaching will be mostly inside with outdoor time to practice and explore.

Please note: Participation in the program on April 8 (drawing) is not necessary in order to participate in the program on April 22 (painting). Participants can register for one program or both. Program fees are for a single program.