Biological Illustration, with Vicki Lynn Ramsay

Phenology calendars are a unique approach to nature study that allows the observer to take a short period of time to note down distinct observations as they relate to time of year, moon phase, temperature, weather, and other details. The calendar itself is an excellent winter tool for artists and naturalists to use in friendly or inclement weather. Each day the observer returns to the same spot, whether it be a bird feeder or a favorite hike or a unique tree in the neighborhood. The calendar becomes filled over the course of the month with these regular observations, slowly creating a larger picture of patterns and relationships. Our time in this course will be spent constructing the calendar for home observation, as well as exploring techniques for nature drawing and journaling in winter.

Students will learn techniques for drawing with graphite pencil and pen & ink. We will focus on drawing a variety of natural forms including water, rocks, trees, insects, and small plants. Students will consider details that aid in plant identification, work on proportion and perspective, quality of line, as well as practice shading, cross-hatching, and stippling.

Date: January 7, 2022
Time: 9am-12:30pm
Ages: All ages
Location: Thoreau College Campus, Viroqua, WI
Materials Fee: $20 for sketch pads, one bristol board for the final piece,
pencils, and a pen.

Sliding Scale Course Fee Guidelines (not including Materials Fees)

Supporter Level Ticket: $65
If you move through the world with financial ease and the means to fulfill many of your wants as well as your needs – you are able to eat out when you want, abundantly meet your needs through employment or can comfortably not work, have access to family wealth, own property, etc. – consider paying at this level, which will help us ensure the long term sustainability of our programs while keeping our offerings accessible to those with access to fewer resources.

Sustainer Level Ticket: $50
If you are able to meet your needs with relative ease while budgeting your educational and entertainment spending – for instance, you are able to take classes and eat out occasionally as long as you are mindful – consider paying at this level, which will help sustain the work of the Folk School at a modest level.

Supported Level Ticket: $35
If you struggle to fund your basic needs and have limited access to resources in your family and community, or if you would not be able to access this offering without a discounted payment option, consider paying at this level. We value your presence and contributions to our community and do not want any economic circumstances to be a barrier to attendance!

Ticket price includes Materials Fee.