Picture Science: Learning to see through nature journaling
From August 2025 to March 2026
Field Sketching, or Nature Journaling, is a method used to connect with nature through firsthand observations. Sketches are developed in a journal based on these observations.
The course is capped at 20 people.
Three workshops will be held (Forest Bathing in the Rewoods, Tidepooling and Spring Flower Walk), lasting 3 hours each. You can choose the workshop(s) that you'd like to engage in.
The field sketching session will be followed by a discussion with Imène on How Ecosystems Adapt In A Changing Environment.
A box with all the materials needed for the day
August 9, 2025
Butano State Park, Pescadero
A synergetic approach to nature connection. Combining nature journaling with forest bathing offers a powerful way to connect with nature, fostering artistic expression and mindful appreciation of the natural world.
December 6, 2025
Fitzgerald Marine Reserve, Moss Beach
Only when waters recede at a low tide does the intertidal zone reveal its majesty to the careful explorer. We will be right there to make scientific observations.
March 21, 2026
San Bruno Hills
You will learn about flower anatomy, field sketching, and painting techniques while practicing observational drawing from live plants in their environment.
The workshops will take place on site at the following locations:
Sami Chang is a science illustrator who is particularly interested in marine ecosystems and the complex interactions displayed between different marine organisms and their environment. Her interests also expand above sea level and into the world of terrestrial organisms and processes. Through my artwork, I wish to inspire others to enjoy the natural world around us in hopes to protect it for future generations.
Her work can be found at https://www.schangstudios.com/
Dr. Imène Ghernati is the Executive Director of the STEAM Learning Institute. Trained as a veterinarian and a researcher, Imene's career spans academia, the pharmaceutical industry, and serving as an educational leader in the classroom and with new and aspiring STEAM teachers. Her journey from a successful researcher with multiple patents to an advocate for liberatory education is driven by her passion for teaching and her commitment to equity and inclusion. Imène has built strong partnerships with schools across the Bay Area and beyond, and maintains close ties with a broad network of STEAM educators nationwide.
*there is a $5 registration fees for K-12 classroom teachers. Sliding scale for other educators
This was a very warm and welcoming activity for young, old, and families. It was calming and inspiring to engage in the close observation of nature and listen to and share with others what we learned!
Field sketching was a perfect opportunity to slow down and be immersed in the life and landscape of the California coast. So much beauty, movement, and stillness provided a wonderful scene for some close looking through sketching and note taking. Sami is a wonderfully thoughtful and talented teacher and Imène is a welcoming host and organizer.
Being on the coast, learning from a talented artist and teacher, and being in community with other educators were all parts of the experience I appreciated. I think what was most moving for me was being present, slowing down, and looking closely in nature. Starting to draw a shell only to have it move a little bit and realizing it is a hermit crab. Trying to draw a rock and realizing how hard it is to capture the edges, especially the curves and softer edges. Looking around and seeing a group of us with our field books.
This was a great opportunity to learn a new skill, practice technique, participate in outdoor learning, and have fellowship with like minded thinkers and educators. This event provided much needed connectivity and community building. I would definitely recommend this type of program to all nature advocates and lifelong learners!
Still have questions about this course? Get in touch with Imène Ghernati, STEAM's founder, to request more information.
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