Calling all creative children who love to make art and don’t mind getting dirty! Explore the garden from an artist’s perspective through different artistic techniques and various media each day. From painting to gardening, campers will unleash their inner artists to craft works of art inspired by horticulture and nature.

Instructor: Amy Davidson, cut flower farmer

Enjoy learning about natural dye techniques as you create a botanical landscape on fabric using fresh flowers and greenery grown on a local farm. Students can choose either an apron, tea towel, or canvas tote bag to craft. All supplies provided and students can supplement them with flowers from home.

Instructor: Mindy Lighthipe, botanical artist and instructor
Prerequisite: Intermediate courses in botanical art & illustration
Level: Intermediate to advanced

Students will have the opportunity to select a pollinator and their host plant to develop with colored pencils and watercolors throughout this three-week course. Mindy will review composition guidelines that are specific to combining plants and insects. You’ll learn unique methods to create the delicate texture and transparency of insect wings. Discover innovative techniques to create metallic sheen and shimmer seen from any angle and direction without the use of iridescent paints. You’ll have the opportunity to experiment with different layering techniques on leaves and plant materials.

NOTE: This course will be taught online using Zoom. Students will need access to a computer that has a built-in camera or a smart phone. The instructor will use live demonstrations during this online workshop to demonstrate techniques and review concepts. During each three-hour session students will have the opportunity to ask questions and submit their artwork via email or share it live during the class for review by the instructor. A recording will be emailed to students after each session and made available for up to 90 days after.

Drop by the Discovery Center and have some fun! We'll have easy-to-make seasonal crafts that you can make and take home. Today we'll be making a froggy craft. Registration required – please register only those making the craft. Stop in anytime during program hours!

Join us as we tap into our creative side to create a rustic vine basket using non-native invasive vines. Explore the effects of nonnative invasive vines on our native plant communities. During a short walk practice identifying common invasive vines. All attendees must register.

Create an array of nature themed crafts with any of our Nature Make and Take programs.

Celebrate Earth Day with tiny “green grenades” of native herb, flower, and vegetable seeds that create pockets of beauty and habitats for pollinators in your garden! Come make your own seed bombs using colored paper and native wildflower seeds and take them home to plant in your garden or neighborhood.

Learn how to make your own paper with upcycled and natural materials. Bring your creative ideas and we’ll provide everything else you need to make your one-of-a-kind nature-inspired paper. Registration is required. Beginners welcome!