How to Nature Journal Like a Kid!
Today, we are going to steal from kids. I know that sounds bad but hear me out. To be more specific we are going to try and steal their learning superpowers. Everyone knows that kids learn better than adults. We also know that nature journaling is all about learning. Therefore, it should come as no […]
How to Use a Waterbrush
Do you know how to use a waterbrush? They are also called water brush pens, watercolor brushpens, and a few other names. Whatever you call them they are amazing. However, they can also be hard to use. In this article, and in this video I share some tips from over ten years of using waterbrushes […]
Nature Journal Beach Vacation…
While everyone else is stressing between thanksgiving and Christmas you are sitting on the beach in Costa Rica. Your nature journal is in your lap. Your watercolors are in your hand. The tropical sun is setting on the ocean in front of you. A piña colada sits loyally next to you in the sand. Button […]
How to Nature Journal Plants
Everybody is doing it, but we could do a better job if we deliberately practiced how to nature journal plants. Today, we are going to look at several approaches. In addition to tips we will go over common mistakes. Do you think you can’t draw? Don’t worry. We will talk about techniques for people who […]
From the Galapagos to You
Outside, a few shafts of sun penetrate the wet swirling clouds. Water drips from a thousand green leaves. A confusing assortment of Galapagos finch calls repeat like a broken record. Inside, I sit directly in front of a fan pretending like it is helping with the 90% humidity and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s only 7:00 […]
Nature Sketching and Nature Journaling: What’s the Difference?
Have you ever wondered what is the difference between nature journaling and nature sketching? Nature sketching and nature journaling are two popular ways to connect with nature and record observations of the natural world. While they may seem similar at first glance, there are some key differences between the two practices. Let’s explore the similarities […]
Drawing as a Learning Tool
What is drawing good for? Two main things in my opinion: decoration and learning. In today’s world we are so focused on the first benefit that we often forget drawing as a learning tool which is much more important. Everyone thinks that drawing is for making something pretty to hang on the wall or to […]
Urban Sketching in San Diego (Balboa Park)
Urban sketching in San Diego is great! Specifically, the famous Balboa park is a perfect place for nature journaling and urban sketching. During a recent stay in San Diego I went to an official Urban Sketchers San Diego meetup at the Old Cactus Garden. It was a beautiful location to sketch. In fact, one of […]
Nature Sketching with Christine Elder
What is the difference between “Nature Sketching” and “Nature Journaling?” Is coffee an essential art supply? What is the best advice for new nature sketchers? How can I go nature sketching with Christine Elder?! We answered all these questions and more in our conversation last night. However, there was one thing we didn’t get to […]
Nature Journaling Beginner
Are you a nature journaling beginner? So is Emily. That’s why she was surprised when I asked her to be on the Nature Journal Show. However, I think it is really important to get the perspective of new nature journalers. As it turns out, Emily had some surprising nuggets of wisdom to share and great […]