Contemplative Art in Nature
With April Claxton, Kimberlee Hummel and Karen Dickinson
August 14 - 19, 2024
Contemplative Art in Nature
Find a new side of you through Mindfulness-inspired art
Join us for a program of presence in nature and expression in art. Through guided mindfulness walks we will get inspiration to connect to our sense of playfulness and wonder. We’ll discover the forest and shoreline by observing with our senses and explore our creativity through print and watercolor. Much or no previous knowledge in these techniques are welcome.
Blueprints of Nature: The Art of Cyanotypes (Kimberlee Hummel)
This section will guide participants through the creation of cyanotype prints, an ancient photographic technique that is over 200 years old. Using the sun’s UV light, light-sensitive paper, and natural materials, we will produce beautiful cobalt blue images. You will learn each step of the cyanotype process, including preparing the solution, treating the paper, creating images, exposing them to light, and fixing the color. Additionally, participants can bring a natural fabric item—such as a t-shirt, pillowcase, or bandana—to print on during the sessions.
Watercolor Time (Karen Dickinson)
Karen will show a few techniques to get you started. She will walk you through the whole process of a full painting so you can understand the paint paper water ratio. Step by step you will be able to paint what you see on your own, with Karen right there to help guide you as much as wanted.
Natural Mindfulness Guide (April Claxton)
Before diving into learning the techniques for creating art we will take time to connect to the nature surrounding us, the forest and shoreline. We will slow down to connect to the land and feel a sense of place. Inspired by nature we can resonate with our art.
Leaders
A lover of slow, meandering walks, April has always preferred taking her time to spot the tiny bits of nature magic along a trail or finding a spot to sit and just be. Recently, after studying the positive health benefits of time in she began leading forest bathing walks. April is grateful to have learned from practitioners both in Bellingham & in Finland and is a certified Natural Mindfulness Guide. She knows slowing down and taking time to be mindful in nature can open us to wonder, peace, joy and a deeper connection to place and to ourselves. Learn more at…
Learn more about April Claxton
Kimberlee Hummel is a history and art teacher who has worked with students of all ages for the past 20 years. She is passionate about fostering creativity, experiential learning, and exploration of the natural world. She received her BFA in photography from the Pacific Northwest College of Art with additional emphasis in printmaking, ceramics, and art history. She lives in Olympia, WA, and is currently exploring fiber arts and mixed media. In her free time, Kimberlee can be found outdoors adventuring, enjoying a good book, or participating in community events.
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With over 15 years of painting experience and more than two years of teaching watercolor, Karen Abel Dickinson is passionate about helping others discover the beauty and flow of watercolor. Completely self-taught through YouTube, Karen has learned how watercolor- pigment, water and paper interact to create stunning, vibrant works of art.As an instructor, Karen focuses on teaching step-by-step techniques that empower students to explore their own creativity. She loves showing how the simplicity of watercolor can produce truly captivating results.Karen’s goal is to inspire confidence in every artist, whether they’re just starting out or refining their skills, by demonstrating that…
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