Spring 2025 Online Sketching Series - Virtual Field Trips

Join me online via Zoom for a series of virtual field trips to some of my favorite places in Alaska. We will explore four unique Alaskan environments while practicing different sketching techniques, including drawing from observation, working with watercolor and colored pencil, and zooming in and out to study our surroundings at different scales. These sessions are designed to help you prepare for outdoor sketching in the warmer months or simply enjoy the moment from your desk.

Each lesson includes an optional warm-up exercise and a field trip orientation a week ahead of time. During our live session, we’ll spend two hours sketching together, followed by extra time for reflection and sharing work.

$30 per class. Sign for individual classes or the full series. I look forward to sketching with you!

Sketching After Fire

Virtual Field Trip to the Upper Chena River Boreal Forest
FUNdraise for Inspiring Girls* Alaska
Saturday, March 1 | 10 AM - 12:30 PM AKST - New date!

I am volunteering my time to teach this class and raise funds for Inspiring Girls* Expeditions (IGE) Alaska, which recently lost grant funding due to its mission to make science and the outdoors more inclusive. I’ve had the honor of instructing with IGE and Girls* in the Forest for two summers, and I’m excited to share these colorful and resilient ecosystems with you.

We will explore sections of the boreal forest in the Upper Chena Recreation Area near Fairbanks, AK, affected by wildfires at different times. Learn about fire ecology, plant succession, and the beauty of post-fire landscapes while sketching.

All proceeds from this class will go directly to IGE Alaska.

Drawing Alpine Plants

Sketching with Pen and Pencil at Nikolai Plateau (Virtual Field Trip)
Friday, March 21 | 1 PM - 3:30 PM AKST

Practice line work, shading, and texture rendering with the simplest tools: pen and pencil. This session focuses on alpine ecosystems and plant adaptations in high-altitude environments.

Nikolai Plateau is home to a diverse array of hardy alpine plants. We’ll explore their unique adaptations and practice capturing their intricate forms through sketching.

Glacier Field Trip

Exploring the Root and Kennicott Glaciers with Watercolor (Virtual Field Trip)
Saturday, April 5 | 10 AM - 12:30 PM AKST

Let’s dive into the world of glaciers and watercolor painting! We’ll learn to capture the many shades of blue found in glacial ice while exploring the stunning Donoho Basin in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park.

In my early summers in McCarthy, I worked part-time as a glacier hiking guide, and I love sharing the unique geologic features of these frozen landscapes. Join me as we observe crevasses, icefalls, and glacial rivers while learning watercolor techniques to bring these breathtaking scenes to life.

Mountains and Landscapes

Virtual Field Trip to Iceberg Lake
Friday, April 18 | 1 PM - 3:30 PM AKST

Let’s revel in a landscape carved by glaciers, wander through alpine meadows, and capture mountain reflections in alpine lakes. This session focuses on landscape composition, depth, and color harmony.

Iceberg Lake, nestled in the Chugach Mountains of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, was once filled with floating icebergs. Today, it remains one of my favorite places, and I can’t wait to share its beauty with you through sketching.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who can participate in these workshops?
Anyone with an interest in sketching and nature is welcome! No prior experience is necessary, and all skill levels are encouraged to join.

What materials will I need?
A recommended materials list will be sent upon registration, but basic supplies typically include paper, pen, pencil, watercolor paints, and colored pencils. Each session may have specific materials depending on the technique being taught.

Do I need to have prior sketching experience?
Not at all! These workshops are designed to be accessible for beginners while also providing depth for more experienced sketchers.

What if I can’t attend the live session?
Each session will be recorded, and the recording will be available for registered participants for a limited time.

How do I access the Zoom sessions?
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email. You’ll also receive a reminder email before the session.

Can I sign up for just one class, or do I need to attend the full series?
You can sign up for individual classes based on your interests or attend the full series for a well-rounded experience.

Will there be time for questions and feedback?
Yes! Each session includes time for reflection, questions, and sharing work with the group.

What if I have technical difficulties joining the session?
If you encounter any issues, please reach out via email before the session, and I will do my best to assist you.