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Read More about this safari issue.As an artist, art teacher and mom, nature journaling has become one of my favorite ways to document our travels across Arkansas. It’s not just about capturing the beauty of the natural world but also about connecting more deeply with it. My husband, our son George, and I have found that nature journaling enriches our outdoor adventures, turning them into creative, personal experiences that we treasure.
Nature journaling can be what you want it to be, but it’s typically a combination of sketches, paintings, notes, and reflections on the natural world. It’s a creative way to document what you see, hear, and feel when you’re outside. For me, it’s like creating a visual diary of our outdoor experiences. I like sketching some of our favorite places and noting things we did and the plants and animals we saw. You don’t need to be an accomplished artist to start nature journaling. The goal is to capture your observations and enjoy the process.
Getting started with nature journaling is simple and doesn’t require a lot of supplies. Here’s a basic list to get you going:
Here are some tips to help you make the most of your nature journaling experience:
There really is no right or wrong way to make a nature journal. My journals include a mixture of drawings, small watercolor paintings and notes about weather, observations, or simply how the day made me feel. Here are a few quick activities to get you started:
If you’re looking to dive deeper into nature journaling, workshops can be incredibly beneficial. Last summer, my husband and I took a nature journaling workshop with Rob Beadel through Project Learning Tree at the Little Rock Audubon Center. It was a fantastic experience that allowed us to explore the trails at the center and get hands-on instruction. Our son George even got involved, making it a fun family activity. Rob Beadle says,
Anyone can take up the hobby of nature journaling. No artistic ability is required; just a desire to connect with the natural world around you. There is no right or wrong way to do it, just get outside and put your thoughts, observations, and connections on paper.
Project Learning Tree classes are geared toward students and educators, but nature journaling workshops are regularly offered at many Arkansas State Parks. These workshops are great for beginners and seasoned journalers alike, providing tips, techniques, and inspiration to enhance your journaling practice. You can find upcoming sessions here.
You can also find nature journaling workshops at Arkansas Game and Fish Nature Centers and public libraries across Arkansas.
One of the things I love most about nature journaling is that it’s accessible to everyone, regardless of art ability. It’s about the process of observation and documentation, not about creating perfect art. Whether you consider yourself an artist or you’re someone who hasn’t picked up a pencil since childhood, nature journaling can be a rewarding and fulfilling activity.
Nature journaling has become a cherished part of our family’s outdoor adventures in Arkansas. It’s a creative and personal way to connect with nature, capture memories, and explore our artistic side. With just a few supplies and an open mind, anyone can start nature journaling and discover the joys of documenting the natural world.
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