Drawing is a great way to connect with the natural world, and nature study can be an inspiring way to develop your drawing skills. Offered in conjunction with the exhibit, All the Marvelous Surfaces: Photography Since Karl Blossfeldt, we’ll begin with a quick tour of the exhibit. Then, using pencil and paper, we’ll explore a variety of natural subjects, from plants and seed pods to bones and shells. The emphasis will be on techniques for close observation, achieving greater accuracy, and creating volume, depth and texture using shading. All skill levels are welcome.

Teacher Bio: Erica Beade is a freelance illustrator and educator specializing in science, health and nature subjects. She began her freelance business, MBC Graphics, in 1998, and since then her work has appeared in numerous books, magazines, exhibits and research journals. The field of scientific illustration has allowed Erica to combine her interests in art, science and the natural world. She holds a B.A. in Studio Art (Drawing and Printmaking) from Wesleyan University and attended the Graphic Arts program at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Erica has a long-standing passion for observational drawing and enjoys sharing that enthusiasm through her work with students of all ages. She has been teaching since 2002 at various venues, including the Harvard Museum of Natural History and the Arlington Center for the Arts. More information at: www.observationaldrawing.com.

Supply List

Multipurpose sketchbook or drawing paper (preferably 9 x 12 or larger)
At least 2 drawing pencils of different hardness (HB, 2B and any others you like)
Erasers: one grey kneaded eraser & one white plastic eraser
Pencil sharpener
Optional: camera to take pictures of your subject matter, so you can continue drawing later

The workshop has capacity for 12 students

Members: $40, Not-Yet-Members: $50