Zoo Nature Journaling: Sketch, Write, Wonder

Zoo Nature Journaling: Sketch, Write, Wonder

At this event we'll carefully watch zoo animals and sketch and write our observations and questions. We'll be focused on observing animal(s)--your choice--in either the Aviary building (birds, bats and more) or the Herpatology building (amphibians and reptiles). This is a not a class, rather a club of curious, friendly folks who like to nature journal. Nature journaling tips will be provided on sketching and diagramming moving animals, and ideas of what to write about (behaviors, sounds, smells). Beginners welcome; all ages welcome.

MEETING SPOT: The entrance to the Aviary which is the building behind the capybara enclosure

PARKING: Park in the (free) lot across from the beach on Vilas Park Dr. Do NOT park in the Vilas Park lot off of Randall as it is 2-hour parking and you may be ticketed.

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FAQs

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What will this club be like?

• This is how the club works: In the beginning we’ll meet together, chat, and see some nature journaling tips. Then we’ll split up to journal about anything that catches our interest. Before the event ends, we’ll come back together again to share what we noticed and wondered about.

What is nature journaling?

• Nature journaling is for anyone interested in nature, field notes, and merging science and art. Nature journaling is more than drawing or painting--we also write questions and notes in our sketchbooks to wonder more deeply about nature. We’ll talk briefly about ideas of what to write, such as using the writing prompts "I notice... I wonder... It reminds me of..." It's also great for anyone who wants to try a low-pressure type of art that's not necessarily focused on pretty pictures.

Who should attend?

• All ages are welcome, children should be accompanied by an adult. No prior art experience is necessary. You don’t need to know how to draw. Nature journaling is perfect for beginners.

Is this a class/workshop?

• Nope, just a club of people who meet regularly. We're the Madison, WI chapter of the wider, international Nature Journal Club.

What should I bring?

• A sketchbook or other paper, plus something to write, draw, or paint with. If outdoors: sunscreen and water. (Some people also bring sketching stools if they think seating may not be available where they want to sketch.)

How often does the Madison Nature Journal Club meet?

• We meet monthly, often during the last weekend of the month. In winter we are usually indoors. In summer we go outdoors. We go to parks, museums, and sometimes library meeting rooms to sketch specimens.

How do I find out about other upcoming club events?

• We meet monthly, often during the last weekend of the month. Events will not always be posted on Eventbright. Instead, follow our Facebook page to see all upcoming events, or join our email list (DM the organizer to get on the list). https://www.facebook.com/groups/madisonnaturejournalclub/events

Is this event's building/park/trail accessible? Are you LGBTQIA+ friendly?

• We are absolustely LGBT+ friendly. We also strive to hold events in places that are accessible. Usually parks that we meet at will have at least some paved paths, and a few parks even have special all-terrain wheelchairs that can be booked ahead of time. Indoor events are almost always up to code and thus accessible. You may want to look at the event's location website to specifically see if the location meets your needs.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Henry Vilas Zoo, 702 South Randall Avenue, Madison, United States