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Learn the tools and techniques for sketching the natural world from life. 22 lessons over the course of four seasons in an encouraging and supportive atmosphere.

"Great introduction to exploring the natural world with sketching and watercolors. In-class instruction about accurate and realistic drawing and use of watercolors is solidified with flexible homework assignments and group review. Fosters observations and learning about the natural world, and has enhanced my enjoyment of nature.”
- Marian

COURSE DESCRIPTION

Field sketching is a wonderful tool for capturing the environment in which you live, travel and appreciate. Add some color to those sketches to make a beautiful illuminated journal!Your goal is to capture quick flashes of the things around you. Many of your sketches may end up very unfinished. Think of each page in your journal or sketchbook as a “study” of some object or place that you want to remember.Birds, mammals, trees and flowers, waterscapes, even buildings, will provide interesting and fun challenges for us as we use various tools for capturing the moment outdoors.

How the ONLINE course works:

- Four seasons with a 3- to 4-week break in between each;
- 2hr classes are held bi-weekly, leaving a comfortable amount of time to attend to homework assignments;
- Each class will focus on specific drawing or observation skills to help create more accurate sketches;
- Each season will focus on specific topics related to natural history to become more aware of the rhythm of nature;
- Homework assignments are provided as guidance outside of class;
- Homework review as a group that offers personal feedback, direction, and confidence;
- Classes are held Thursdays 2-4pmAKT, 6-8pmET; and
- All classes are recorded so you can reference the material after a missed class or for learning at your own pace

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“The class is more than an art course… what I most appreciate… is that I am more observant of the nature around me, whether it is in my backyard, on my commute to work or out in nature.”
- Amy

Course Details

Fall Season 4 classes: Nov 7 & 21, Dec 5 & 19
Covers the basics of using graphite, pen & ink, and a few important watercolor skills; 3-4 drawing exercises to sharpen observation skills. Introduction to the Sit Spot and selection of a study tree that you'll observe throughout the year. Break from mid-Dec through early-Jan.

Winter Season 6 classes: Jan 9 & 23, Feb 6 & 20, Mar 9 & 20
Continued practice to understand the the three mediums, dipping into slightly more intermediate techniques. Break until early April.

Spring Season 6 classes: Apr 10 & 24, May 8 & 22, Jun 5 & 19
Switching to a handful of concentrated drawing lessons to learn how to see perspective, shapes, proportions and 3D form. Break until mid-July.

Summer Season 6 classes: Jul 17 & 31, Aug 14 & 28, Sep 11 & 25
Covers slightly more advanced topics such as composition, page layout in the sketchbook, drawing animals.

What Will It Cost?

All this for $2999
Three payment options available.

“DO IT! Sandy is amazingly talented and superbly supportive and
encouraging no matter what your skill level is.”
- Angela

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Questions?

Let me know what you are wondering by dropping a note to [email protected].

About the Instructor

My field sketching practice informs everything I do as an Artist, Instructor, and Writer.Art and nature have been part of my life in varying ways since childhood. After a few years flipping between art and biology as an undergrad, I found my way to Natural Science Illustration and never looked back.Teaching others to connect with the natural world through direct observation and journaling brings me as much joy as my personal art practice does.With a focus on "process" rather than always completing finished works, I am teaching skills that apply to anything you want to sketch.You know the old adage..."Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime"? That's what I aim to do.Join me for a year of coaching your own practice.

All images on this page ©Sandy McDermott with exception of the instructor photo above, ©Morgan Lee Photography, and cannot be used without permission.