Welcoming Nature

I recently had a wonderfully playful and philosophical conversation with artist-educator Stephey Baker. Our talk ranged from the mechanics of how we journal, to build habits, to deep and personal connections with place borne of attention and how that motivates stewardship. I wanted to dig deeper and thought we might bring this conversation to our community. This episode will be less of a technique demonstration and more of a look into what motivates us and where we can go. The first part of the workshop will be a conversation between Stephey and me, followed by an open conversation with everyone in the community.

Things to think about…

• What awakens within us when we journal in nature? A passion for the natural world? Creativity?Stewardship?
• How can nature journaling change our understanding of nature?
• What do you now know that you didn’t know before nature journaling?
• Some people have a cup of coffee/tea every day. How can we welcome nature into our everyday routine?
• Awakening to nature, how can it change us?
• How does stewardship fit into journaling and nature connection?

About our Guest

Artist Stephey Baker specializes in pen and ink, watercolor, color theory, and graphic design for the professional artist community. Her lifelong love of nature and art led her to nature journaling and botanical illustration. She obtained a botanical illustration certificate from Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, where she also instructs nature journaling and botanical illustration classes. Besides teaching in her studio and online, Stephey is also a visiting artist at various gardens and art centers on the east coast. She loves teaching others how to get creative, get inspired by nature, and connect with their inner artist. Spending time in nature and cultivating a curious mind is what inspires her creativity. Currently, she is registered in a pollinator steward certification program through Pollinator Partnership, a non-profit organization that conserves, educates, and researches pollinators. Stephey lives in Richmond, Virginia, with her rescued dogs and cats. She tends to a tiny urban garden full of life. In her favorite dreams, she talks to Bumble Bees. Learn more at markedbythemuse.com

Join John Muir Laws for weekly live nature Journaling workshops with tips, techniques, inspiration, teaching strategies, and interviews. Topics are usually announced in advance of the workshop. If special materials or class-specific downloads are available, you can find them here in the class description before the class. All ages and experience levels are welcome. No registration is necessary.

Suggested donation: $20. Your donation helps support me and my family. Your generosity is deeply appreciated and it makes an immediate difference in my ability to continue to offer these programs. Your donation is tax-deductible. Click here to donate. If you are not able to donate at this time, no problem–please continue to enjoy the classes and find another way to pay it forward in your community with acts of kindness and service. Thank you!

If you are new to Zoom or are having trouble with the meeting controls, please see these notes and suggestions on Zoom Tips for Online Classes with John Muir Laws to help you get more out of the online workshop. When possible I will also make a recording of the workshop and post it on my blog. I look forward to seeing you there!

Bring

• Your Journal and favorite drawing materials. Taking notes while you watch and participate will help you remember the new techniques and incorporate them into your journaling.
• Your sense of humor!