Drawing into Nature

AN 8-SESSION COURSE WITH ARTIST ELLA LAPOINTE

In our modern intellectual culture, we tend to see mainly what we already “know,” rather than pouring our attention into the concrete appearances of the world. Drawing can help us to breakout of “what we think we see.” It can help us attend to and carefully observe natural phenomena as they actually appear. In April, we will begin with some foundational work, and then focus on natural forms; plants, budding and sprouting, trees, landscape, and atmospheric phenomena — light, clouds, water. If the presence of animals graces us, we will draw them as well. Our attention will also be given to growth (in budding trees and opening flowers) and decay (in withering daffodils and other early spring flowers).

When the weather permits, our group will sketch outside. When we cannot draw outdoors, quiet observation will be followed by drawing indoors — from memory and imagination. We will primarily work with light and dark but may sometimes venture into color. We may use graphite, wax crayons, water-soluble crayons, gouache, and more. The course welcomes participants of all skill levels.

Tuesdays from 4:30pm to 6:00pm (starting on April 18 and ending on June 13; no class on May 23)

Sliding scale fee: $100 – $400. (No one will be excluded due to inability to pay.)

Materials are provided for drawing during the sessions; if you have a favorite sketch book or preferred drawing materials, please bring them along.

To register for the course (space is limited), please call or email us at 518-672-0116 or info@natureinstitute.org.
Full payment is due on the first evening (check payable to The Nature Institute or cash).

Ella Lapointe is an artist and illustrator. She has a deep interest in the Goethean approach to perceiving and understanding nature. Ella completed The Nature Institute’s Foundation course in Goethean science.