
Field Sketching workshop at the Hastings Natural History Reservation
TWO DAYS: Saturday April 19 & Sunday, April 20
1 PM Saturday to 1 PM Sunday
Please fill out the registration form HERE
Join an experienced scientific illustrator for a weekend of guided field illustrations at the Hastings Natural History Reservation in Carmel Valley. Learn how to draw from life and record the details of organisms you observe with plenty of time to get to know the Reserve. Weather conditions will guide the instructor’s exact location choice to assure you'll have the chance to observe a diverse array of organisms. You will learn about various species on the Reserve, practice field sketching and painting techniques, and hone your observational drawing from live creatures in their environment. You will have time to work on multiple drawings or sketches using different techniques, and gain skills using pencil, gouache, and watercolor on various papers. After the first day in the field, we will have time to share sketchbooks and discuss triumphs and challenges from the day. On the second day, we will delve more into color and how to capture light and shadow to create form. You will work toward an in-depth study of a plant or flower using watercolor.
Your materials fee covers supplies chosen by the instructor specifically for field illustration. You are also required to bring some basic supplies to class.
Additional info:
MATERIALS
The materials fee (included in total) will cover the following items, which will be provided to students in class and that they will be able to take home:
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White gouache
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Canson Mi Tientes toned paper
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waterbrush
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Small sturdy tin of artist-grade watercolor paint, curated and assembled by the instructor
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Artist-grade colored pencils
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Artist-grade 100% cotton rag watercolor paper
Students are responsible for bringing the following supplies to class:
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Any sketchbook or several sheets of approximately 65 lb. drawing paper, any size between 8.5" x 5.5" to 11" x 14"
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A hard surface to support drawing paper. This can be the cover of a sketchbook or a small board. It only needs to be large enough to support approximately 9” x 12” paper.
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One or two #2 pencils
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One eraser - pink pearl, gray kneaded, or white plastic
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One or two ink pens (waterproof ink is recommended but not required)
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One light blue colored pencil
FIELD CONDITIONS:
There will be some walking, up to 3 miles or so each day. Students will be walking on well-established trails in mixed terrain, and the walk is moderate to moderately strenuous.
A sunhat, sturdy shoes, water, clothing layers, and snacks are recommended.
Students may sit or stand while sketching. If students want to sit, it is recommended that they bring a portable folding chair that they can carry along with the rest of their materials.
WHAT TO WEAR:
Please be sure to wear comfortable clothes and sturdy, closed-toed shoes, and dress for the weather, including potential fog, wind, and sun. Layers are strongly recommended. Because of the field conditions (sandy soils, poison oak, ticks, etc.), long pants, long sleeves, and clothes that are ok to get dirty are recommended.
ACCOMMODATIONS:
Attendees will stay in one of the historic buildings on the reserve. Bedrooms and bathrooms are generally shared and you will need to bring your own bedding. Each building has a shared kitchen with plenty of space for food storage and basic food preparation and serving supplies.
Catered meals provided: Dinner on Saturday night. Breakfast and lunch on Sunday. Please let instructor know if you have dietary needs or food allergies.
Fees:
Course instruction: $200
Materials: $50
Accommodations and Meals: $150
TOTAL Fees: $400