Ecosystem Connections through Nature Drawing with Annie Brulé – Life on the Edge

Join Vashon Nature Center and local artist Annie Brulé for our workshop series: Ecosystem Connections through Nature Drawing with Annie Brulé. This group will meet three times from May to July to learn the basics of nature sketching and use the art form as a tool to connect with the natural environment around you. Participants will meet in various locations to learn the wisdom from different local ecosystems. 

Additional Information: 

This three-part series invites participants to connect with local ecosystems while learning the basics of nature sketching as a tool for connection. Slow down, tune into your senses, and develop the art of observation while learning new skills for drawing outdoors. Students will improve observation and critical thinking skills through the ABCDE’s of nature journaling, which combines written and drawn field notes. Individual and group journaling opportunities will exist as the course explores a variety of natural settings and ecosystems on Vashon.

• Prerequisites: none
• Appropriate for: Adults and teens 14 and older
• What to expect/Accessibility: We’ll walk a short distance over uneven ground during each class, and we’ll sit on the ground or on benches to do our drawings. 
• Supplies: A small blank notebook will be provided for each person to keep. Simple pencils and pens will be available to use during class. Please bring your favorite pens or pencils if you like.
  

Session Two – Explore life on the edge of land and sea while exploring the diversity of life along KVI beach. Learn about the traditional native practice of tending clam gardens, and the importance of nearshore seagrass beds. Search for a variety of shells and surround yourself with the sounds of the sea while drawing seashells and hearing a traditional story of how clams came to live under the sand. Sign up for session 2 here. 

Session Three – Enjoy the bountiful splendor of Pacific Northwest summer while learning about the many edible berries of the Pacific Northwest through traditional stories and useful plant ID skills. Gain tips for how to identify and use berry plants throughout the year. Discover the diversity of berries on the island and snack away while drawing with berry-stained fingers. Sign up for session 3 here. 

Vashon Nature Center’s mission is to create transformative nature experiences through community science, research, and education for the benefit of our island home and the entire Salish Sea ecosystem.Vashon Nature Center is a federally registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization (EIN: 82-5064648).