California Botanic Garden Natural Art Journaling | April 18, 2026 10 am-noon

Description

Art journaling is one of the most freeing creative practices you can have — there are no rules, no right answers, and no grades. It is simply you, a page, and whatever you feel like putting on it. In this class we take that freedom one step further by drawing inspiration from the living world around us.

Our setting — this beautiful botanic garden — is our muse. We’ll use the colors, shapes, textures, and energy of the natural world as a jumping-off point for our pages. That doesn’t mean everything you make must look like a leaf or a flower. Nature can inspire a color palette, a mood, a texture, or simply a moment of stillness that leads to something completely abstract and personal. You are the artist — the garden is just here to spark something in you.

During our time together, we’ll explore layering, mixed media techniques, mark-making, and ways to incorporate natural elements like pressed botanicals, earthy tones, and organic patterns into your pages. You’ll leave with a started journal, new techniques in your creative toolkit, and — most importantly — a practice you can continue on your own.

‍Returning from Last Year’s Art Journaling Class?
If you joined us for “What is Art Journaling? Meet Your New Best Friend” last year — welcome back! It is so wonderful to see the community that grew out of that class, and this workshop is a natural next step. You are absolutely welcome — and encouraged — to bring your journal from last year’s class, any supplies you already have and love, or anything else that is part of your current practice. This class will build on what you already know while introducing fresh techniques and ideas. Returning students will find plenty of new territory to explore.

Important Note About Materials:
All supplies needed will be provided for you. Please note: because we are outfitting every participant, supplies are intentionally curated to cover a wonderful range of techniques. If you have beloved tools or materials of your own, you are always welcome to bring them along — more options only means more creative possibilities!