Picture Science: Learning to see through drawing
January 2025
Field Sketching, or Nature Journaling, is a method used to connect with nature through firsthand observations. Sketches are developed in a journal based on these observations.
This course is best suited for:
The course is capped at 15 people.
Only when waters recede at a low tide does the intertidal zone reveal its majesty to the careful explorer. We will be right there to make scientific observations.
Field sketches are developed in a journal based on your observations. Words referencing things like weather, date, time of day, and characteristics of the object are added to further describe the moment. These descriptive words are a form of data collection or note-taking commonly used in Science.
The field sketching session will be followed by a discussion with Imène on How Ecosystems Adapt In A Changing Environment.
A box with all the materials needed for the day
Sami Chang is a science illustrator who is particularly interested in marine ecosystems and the complex interactions displayed between different marine organisms and their environment. Her interests also expand above sea level and into the world of terrestrial organisms and processes. Through my artwork, I wish to inspire others to enjoy the natural world around us in hopes to protect it for future generations. Her work can be found at https://www.schangstudios.com/.
This course is made available to participants at no cost.
This was a very warm and welcoming activity for young, old, and families. It was calming and inspiring to engage in the close observation of nature and listen to and share with others what we learned!
Field sketching was a perfect opportunity to slow down and be immersed in the life and landscape of the California coast. So much beauty, movement, and stillness provided a wonderful scene for some close looking through sketching and note taking. Sami is a wonderfully thoughtful and talented teacher and Imène is a welcoming host and organizer.
Being on the coast, learning from a talented artist and teacher, and being in community with other educators were all parts of the experience I appreciated. I think what was most moving for me was being present, slowing down, and looking closely in nature. Starting to draw a shell only to have it move a little bit and realizing it is a hermit crab. Trying to draw a rock and realizing how hard it is to capture the edges, especially the curves and softer edges. Looking around and seeing a group of us with our field books.
This was a great opportunity to learn a new skill, practice technique, participate in outdoor learning, and have fellowship with like minded thinkers and educators. This event provided much needed connectivity and community building. I would definitely recommend this type of program to all nature advocates and lifelong learners!
Still have questions about this course? Get in touch with Imène Ghernati, STEAM's founder, to request more information.
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