Now more than ever, you may want a sense of calm and rootedness.
Of small, simple moments of joy.
Of deep connection to place.
And, a parallel quietness of mind.
Go for it! Suspend time. Pause the do list in your head. Instead, focus closely on details in the natural world around you.
Sketching is a powerful way to direct your attention and create this sense of focus. If you’re not quite sure how to get started, this little pocket guide is for you!
This advance copy of the Pocket Guide to Sketching and Field Journal Basics gets you started with the fun, whacky techniques that professional artists use to warm up, move past the blank page, and channel observation into discovery and delight.
With your copy of the pocket guide as your companion, you can pursue your curiosity while calming your mind. If you sketch your observations regularly, you will begin to build a sense of place, whether you observe snails in a window flower box, weeds growing through cracks in the sidewalk, or migratory birds in a wilderness area.
While the materials in this pocket guide focus on science and nature, the sketching exercises and basic principles are equally useful if you want to sketch your garden, coffee cup, or next trip (when we can travel again!).
Pay what you can!
With whatever amount* you are able to contribute, you can take yourself on a journey that will enhance your sense of place and help you find small delights close to home.
*Just adjust the quantity in the PayPal link to adjust the amount you contribute! 🙂 Shipping will be calculated automatically.
Now, keep reading to learn a bit more about how science and art have teamed up throughout the ages!
Continue reading “Pocket Guide: Sketching and Field Journal Basics”
Bethann Garramon Merkle, MFA 