What a lovely article and read. I recently purchased Ali’s book. I have dabbled in nature journaling for a while but always felt intimidated by the sketching. We are definitely our own worst critics. Slowly but surely I’m overcoming the fear and just sitting down and putting pencil to paper. Thank you for the reminder that it’s
I'm glad you enjoyed the article! I agree that simply starting is a win - when I first took up Green Sketching, I only ever gave myself 5 or 10 minute windows to sketch, so that I wouldn't tell myself I didn't have time, or feel overwhelmed by where to start, etc.
Drawing little boxes on the page also always helps me - because then I've already started something on the page and might as well fill the boxes with things that I can see!
Yes - it really helps us to slow down and look at what we're planning to draw. You might also want to do your 1 minute observation and then consciously note to yourself what you've seen (eg, this leaf is basically an oval shape, with lots of little jagged edges and a prominent vein down the middle.) Actively telling ourselves (out loud if you're not self-conscious, but in your head otherwise!) what we're seeing helps us to cement the observation so that when we come to draw it is easier.
Thank you for this wonderful article! I love how you talked about your own misgivings as a self taught artist and how Green Sketching has helped you—my experience exactly! It can feel sooo intimidating to just get started, but this approach can really help people ease in. I also love how you made the very important distinction between nature contact and nature connection—yes! It’s such a critical point! Thank you for championing this wonderful approach and helping to get the word out!
Yes—I really did! I’m teaching a class this Sunday on nature journaling and plan to mention Green Sketching, so I will be sure to send folks to your article!! 💐
I have never heard of ‘green sketching’ before - what an interesting idea. I am also self-taught and have been wanting to include more shapes and textures from the natural world into my practice. I was feeling a little overwhelmed with the enormity of choices but this idea makes it feel much more manageable. Thank you!!
You're very welcome, Deb! One of the things I emphasise in my in-person workshops is that there is no 'right' way to do Green Sketching - there's just the way that is right for you and when we lean in to that it can be so freeing.
This is a lovely read. Keeping a nature journal is one of my absolute most favourite things to do and I love that you are inspiring people to start this. Wishing you all the best with your workshops!
What a lovely article and read. I recently purchased Ali’s book. I have dabbled in nature journaling for a while but always felt intimidated by the sketching. We are definitely our own worst critics. Slowly but surely I’m overcoming the fear and just sitting down and putting pencil to paper. Thank you for the reminder that it’s
I'm glad you enjoyed the article! I agree that simply starting is a win - when I first took up Green Sketching, I only ever gave myself 5 or 10 minute windows to sketch, so that I wouldn't tell myself I didn't have time, or feel overwhelmed by where to start, etc.
Drawing little boxes on the page also always helps me - because then I've already started something on the page and might as well fill the boxes with things that I can see!
thank you for this article! I especially am drawn to your instruction to observe for one minute before drawing anything.
Yes - it really helps us to slow down and look at what we're planning to draw. You might also want to do your 1 minute observation and then consciously note to yourself what you've seen (eg, this leaf is basically an oval shape, with lots of little jagged edges and a prominent vein down the middle.) Actively telling ourselves (out loud if you're not self-conscious, but in your head otherwise!) what we're seeing helps us to cement the observation so that when we come to draw it is easier.
Green sketching sounds so lovely and more now that spring is finally here!
Exactly - although I do love sketching winter trees!
Ohh those are nice too, unjust get cold too soon 🥲
Thank you for this wonderful article! I love how you talked about your own misgivings as a self taught artist and how Green Sketching has helped you—my experience exactly! It can feel sooo intimidating to just get started, but this approach can really help people ease in. I also love how you made the very important distinction between nature contact and nature connection—yes! It’s such a critical point! Thank you for championing this wonderful approach and helping to get the word out!
Thanks Nina - what a lovely comment! I'm glad you enjoyed the article.
Yes—I really did! I’m teaching a class this Sunday on nature journaling and plan to mention Green Sketching, so I will be sure to send folks to your article!! 💐
Thanks Nina! I highly recommend Ali Foxon’s book as well - The Green Sketching Handbook (https://www.waterstones.com/book/the-green-sketching-handbook/ali-foxon/9781529070309)
Oh yes--I certainly will! 🥰
I have never heard of ‘green sketching’ before - what an interesting idea. I am also self-taught and have been wanting to include more shapes and textures from the natural world into my practice. I was feeling a little overwhelmed with the enormity of choices but this idea makes it feel much more manageable. Thank you!!
You're very welcome, Deb! One of the things I emphasise in my in-person workshops is that there is no 'right' way to do Green Sketching - there's just the way that is right for you and when we lean in to that it can be so freeing.
An excellent read. Added the book to my list and I’m eagerly awaiting the snow around my house to melt so I can get out there.
Thanks Fialka - glad you enjoyed it!
This is a lovely read. Keeping a nature journal is one of my absolute most favourite things to do and I love that you are inspiring people to start this. Wishing you all the best with your workshops!
Thanks Amy!