Program Postponed

This program will be rescheduled to a later date. Stay tuned for announcements via our social media and newsletter! 

Like the ecosystems around us, nature journaling has diverse expressions.

It does not matter whether we consider ourselves “artistic”: engaging in journaling invites us to pay closer attention to the natural world. It provides a personalized means of study, place-making, meditation, creative craft, and scientific analysis all at once!

In a very relaxed atmosphere, we will take to the landscape and learn to record the plants we see using a variety of mark making techniques. Absolutely no drawing experience is necessary!

In addition, we will talk about simple botanical terms and also view some other types of botanical journal structures. Whether you’re an active journaler looking to expand your toolkit or hope to start journaling for the first time, you’ll leave with a set of skills and ideas for continuing to connect with nature through journaling.

Sketches from the instructor's journal. 

What to bring:

• A blank sketchbook or notepad, preferably one with wire binding for ease of page turning. Size should be between 5” x 8” to 9” x 12” (whatever you can hold in your hand comfortably).
• Pencil, eraser
• Comfortable clothing suitable for walking and sitting outdoors. Expect uneven, semi-wild terrain and potentially muddy conditions. Seasonal protection (sunscreen, hat, gentle bug spray/balm, etc.) is encouraged. 
• A refillable water canister (drinking water is available on site) and snacks if desired.

A limited number of jeweler’s loupes (miniature magnifying lenses for botanical study) will be provided. If you have your own, we encourage you to bring it!

The Horn Farm will also supply a few other drawing materials that you can try.

If you are interested in purchasing a new journal or supplies for this course, here are some local, small business craft purveyors we recommend:

• curio. Gallery & Creative Supply (downtown Lancaster)
• Pippi's Pen Shoppe (downtown York) 

Program Notes:

Environment: This class will take place outdoors along walking trails in meadow and woodland ecosystems at the Horn Farm. Please check the weather in advance and dress accordingly. Seasonal protection (sunscreen, hat, gentle bug spray/balm, etc.) is encouraged.

Accessibility: This program will involve walking on uneven, hilly terrain and sitting in outdoor spaces. You may pack in your own cushion, blanket, or portable seat if assisted sitting is preferred. 

Arrival: Parking takes place in the field above the farmhouse. Plan to arrive 10 minutes early so we can begin the class on time.

Audience: This program is designed for adult learning. 

Cost: The cost for this program is $30/person. Sliding scale options are available to increase accessibility.

All programs are subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances including inclement weather. Participants will receive an email in the days preceding the program for any changes or cancellations. You can review our current Cancellation and Refund Policy here. 

Sketches from the instructor's journal. 

About the Instructor: Diane Podolsky

Pennsylvania artist Diane Podolsky has focused a large part of her art career studying the natural world. Being from Philadelphia, her focus was originally urban ecology but then shifted to agriculture and general conservation concerns upon relocating to North Carolina. Shortly before moving South, Diane completed the Master Gardeners Program through Penn State Extension and worked for a season as a gardener at the historic Glen Foerd Museum. Upon moving to North Carolina, Diane joined Central Carolina Master Naturalists and took a job on a small commercial farm, tending several acres and a large greenhouse, while also volunteering with a local Herbarium. Eventually, Diane was hired at the Herbarium to mount a large collection of plants and also was part of the team that managed the day to day operations of the herbarium. Her main mediums are printmaking, drawing, and artist books. She has exhibited extensively and her work is in public and private collections in the US and abroad.