Field Sketching with Nora Sherwood
The simple act of drawing in nature allows its calm and beauty to affect you in powerful ways.Deep observation of the type required for field sketching brings that connection even closer. This workshop will introduce a few techniques used by science illustrators: observation, measured drawing, creating texture and a basic understanding of using shading to create form. These are quick and easy tools intended to improve your field sketches. Guidance and demos by Nora will help reinforce your learning. It’s a great way to enjoy the preserve, by taking some time for deep observation of tree bark, ferns, mosses, tiny flowers and other things we find. A guided nature hike is included.
Our exploration will take us on well-established trails with hilly terrain and sustained grades up to 12%. Those with mobility challenges, breathing difficulties, or balance concerns will find this experience difficult. Please wear sturdy hiking shoes.
Details:
Instructor: Nora Sherwood
Location: Outdoors at Yakona Nature Preserve
Ages: Adults and youth ages 16+ (youth must be accompanied by a participating adult)
Yakona provides: All class materials (unless otherwise noted)
Please bring: Drinking water, snacks or lunch, any necessary medications (including EpiPens), and weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy walking shoes.
Insects: Mosquitoes and yellow jackets are part of the Yakona ecosystem. Insect repellent is recommended if you are sensitive to bites. If you have a severe allergic reaction to stings, you are required to bring your EpiPen.
Arrival & Departure: Please plan to stay for the full duration of the class. Because Yakona is accessed by guided escort only, participants are unable to enter or leave independently once the program begins.
Parking & Carpooling: Participants will meet at the parking area and carpool the three miles into Yakona to minimize vehicle traffic on the preserve.
Restrooms: Restroom facilities are rustic outhouses and porta potties.
Pets: For the safety of Yakona's wildlife, pets are not permitted on the preserve, nor are pets allowed in parked vehicles, as there are no shaded parking areas.
Caring for Yakona: Please help us protect this special place by staying on designated trails, respecting wildlife, and leaving plants, fungi, and other natural features undisturbed unless collecting is part of the class. Pack out any personal belongings and trash and leave Yakona as beautiful as you found it.
Weather: Programs may be held rain or shine unless hazardous weather or other unsafe conditions require cancellation.
Attendance Commitment: Because space is limited and these resources are generously provided, we ask that you register only if you plan to attend. If your plans change, please let us know as soon as possible so we can offer your space to someone on the waitlist.
Class Enrollment: A minimum number of participants is required for this workshop. Yakona reserves the right to cancel a class due to low enrollment. Registered participants will be notified as soon as possible if a class is canceled.
Cost: This event is offered at no cost through grant funding and community support. Donations are always appreciated.
Give TodayNora Sherwood
Nora joined the field of science illustration as a mid-life career changer after many years in the world of high tech. She graduated from the University of Washington's Natural Science Illustration certificate program in 2014, and now works as a full-time, self-employed illustrator. Intricate details and patterns found in nature are endlessly fascinating to her. Her primary medium is watercolor, a highly technical but powerful medium that allows her to construct illustrations in layers, always considering pigment characteristics and color theory to build forms and create depth. She also works in colored pencil, pen and ink, graphite and scratchboard. She has created illustrations for U.S. Fish and Wildlife, Oregon Coast Aquarium, High Desert Museum and many other local government entities and private businesses.