Time in the Forest: Watercolor Journaling as Nature Connection

Nature connection, creativity and mindfulness come together in this two-day workshop that will give participants the skills and space to connect to themselves, to nature and to others through nature journaling. Participants will learn basic watercolor skills, including color mixing and application, and be given prompts and guidance to create their own "conversation with Nature" in the way that feels authentic to themselves. We will spend time outside, as well as in the studio, observing, reflecting on and celebrating the nature around us through easy and engaging writing, drawing and watercolor exercises.

Elizabeth Higgins is an artist, instructor and nature therapist who teaches classes and workshops that connect people to nature, mindfulness and creativity. She has taught nature journaling classes and watercolor classes for over a decade. She is known for her calm, supportive teaching style and her approach is centered on the belief that both nature and creative expression are crucial components of human well-being.

• A journal or sketchbook of any size with smooth paper that is heavy enough to hold a little water for watercolor.

• Professional grade watercolor paints in tubes: at least one of each primary color of red, yellow and blue. I prefer and recommend Daniel Smith or M. Graham watercolors.

o Red: Quinacridone rose and Pyrrol red

o Yellow: Hansa Yellow and New Gamboge

o Blue: Ultramarine and Phthalo Blue (Green Shade)

o Any other colors you have or are intrigued by

• A small travel palette with a lid and a seal. I like the Mijello air-tight watercolor palette with 18 wells. We will set up our palette and paints in the workshop.

• Brushes

o Size 8 and Size 10 round watercolor brushes and any other watercolor brushes you have, including a small flat brush (optional)

• Water container

• Clean rags

• Pens:

o Permanent, waterproof black pens with fine and medium tips. Be sure that it is actually waterproof! Pitt and Micron artist pens are waterproof.

o Optional pens: a water-soluble Flair Paper-Mate black felt tip pen, any gel pens or paint pens you have and like using

• Pencils (#2) and kneaded eraser, I also like having a white art eraser

• A notebook for note-taking

• Glue sticks and scissors

• Stamp-carving materials by Speedball: Speedy-cut carving rubber in white or pink, and a carving tool. Bring several pieces of the carving rubber to play with!

• A water bottle for working outside the studio

• Bring a backpack or other tote for carrying everything as we explore the woods and river nearby.

• A small portable camp stool if you wish, or a small blanket or pad for sitting on the ground

• Extra paints

• Mixing plates

• Extra brushes

• Handouts and watercolor papers to experiment with