Course Description:
This four-week course is designed for those who wish to deepen their connection with their garden by documenting its beauty and changes throughout the seasons. Participants will learn how to create a personal garden journal, blending written observations with sketches, drawings, and watercolor paintings. The journal becomes both a practical tool for tracking the health and growth of plants and a creative outlet for capturing the natural beauty of the garden. This course is perfect for gardeners who want to slow down, observe, and record the rhythms of their garden in a mindful and artistic way.
Course Objectives:
- Creating a Garden Journal: Learn how to set up and maintain a garden journal, focusing on tracking plant growth, weather patterns, and seasonal changes.
- Drawing and Painting Techniques: Develop basic drawing and watercolor techniques to visually record plants, flowers, and the landscape.
- Mindful Observation of the Garden: Cultivate a habit of mindful observation, taking time to notice the subtle shifts and details in your garden.
- Personal Reflection and Connection: Use the journal as a space for personal reflection, blending practical notes with creative expression.
Course Outcomes for Students:
- Garden Journal: By the end of the course, students will have started a personalized journal that includes sketches, paintings, and observations from their own garden.
- Proficiency in Garden Sketching and Painting: Develop confidence in drawing and painting plants, flowers, and garden scenes, regardless of prior artistic experience.
- Mindful Gardening Practices: Gain a deeper connection to the garden by learning to observe and appreciate the day-to-day changes in plants and nature.
- Long-Term Garden Tracking: Learn how to use your journal as a long-term tool for tracking garden progress, from planting schedules to seasonal highlights.
Weekly Breakdown:
- Week 1: Setting Up Your Garden Journal
Learn how to structure your journal, including sections for plant tracking, weather, and observations. Begin simple sketches of plants and garden elements. - Week 2: Drawing and Sketching Your Garden
Explore basic drawing techniques to capture the shape, texture, and details of plants, flowers, and landscapes. - Week 3: Watercolor Painting in the Garden
Introduce watercolors to your journal, learning to paint plants and garden scenes in a way that reflects their natural beauty. - Week 4: The Art of Mindful Observation
Focus on refining your journal entries with more detailed observations and reflective notes, combining practical gardening insights with artistic expression.
Requirements:
No prior drawing or gardening experience is required. This course is suitable for anyone who enjoys spending time in the garden and wishes to document their experiences in a creative and mindful way.
Materials:
All materials will be provided, including sketchbooks, pencils, watercolors, and brushes. Participants are welcome to bring additional materials or any personal journals they may already be working on.
