Nature Journaling
Slow down and connect with nature through sketching and observation in this hands-on journaling class. No experience needed—just curiosity and a love of the outdoors.
Nature Awareness & Journaling Classes
Explore nature through sketching and observation in this engaging, hands-on journaling class. No experience needed—just curiosity and a love of the outdoors.
What is Nature Journaling?
Check out this inspiring explanation by Jack Laws. You can scroll down to play his introductory YouTube video.
Where: Locations will vary. See below for details.
Who is teaching?
Classes will be taught by Wendy Kanter or Lori Clayton. Both are wonderful teachers!
Who: Everyone is welcome! Please share with anyone who may be interested.
Cost: Sliding scale - Free to $25. Donations are not expected or required.
But if you are able to support these classes an keep them going, donations of any amount can be made online at Ellwood Friends - ellwoodfriends.org.
Schedule & RSVP
SEPTEMBER
Sunday, September 13, 2pm – 4pm
Ellwood Monarch Grove Overlook
https://maps.app.goo.gl/S3D7ZudPTna9t3VE9
(park on Coronado Drive; follow signage for 5-minute walk)
OCTOBER
Sunday, October 4, 2pm – 4pm
Ellwood Monarch Grove Overlook
https://maps.app.goo.gl/S3D7ZudPTna9t3VE9
(park on Coronado Drive; follow signage for 5-minute walk)
NOVEMBER
Sunday, November 8, 2pm – 4pm
Santa Barbara Shores Road entrance to Ellwood Mesa
https://maps.app.goo.gl/dg95zEmd4YwJipiX7
(park & meet near the very end of Santa Barbara Shores Road)
DECEMBER
Sunday, December 6, 2pm – 4pm
Coronado Butterfly Preserve
https://maps.app.goo.gl/MkScAf3EHFFEztzw9
(park on Coronado Drive; follow signage to meadow/bowl)
Photo and artwork by S. Courtney Walton
Materials
What to bring?
Essential materials :
— pencil and/or pen
—sheets of blank paper or gridded/graph paper
—clipboard or other firm surface for paper
— beach chair or camp chair
— water, hat, snacks or whatever you need for your comfort
That’s it! Keep it simple to get started.
Helpful but optional:
— small (6”) ruler
— small sketchbook (7” x 10” is a good size on lap) OR
—field/lab notebook (blank or gridded pages) with sturdy front & back covers for support
— colored pencils
— magnifying glass
— binoculars
Personal style options—up to each person’s eventual preference, such as:
—stopwatch or counters
—tweezers
—field guide books
—tape or clear film, or mounting block or other support for certain items
—erasers
—watercolors, watercolor pencils, brushes
—inks and dip pens
—charcoal, conté, pastels
Photo: Nature Journaling participant at Ellwood Mesa’s 20th Anniversary, May 2025
Meet the Team
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Wendy Kanter
Co-Founder, Nature Journaling Club, Ellwood Friends
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Lori Clayton
Co-Founder, Nature Journaling Club, Ellwood Friends
