How does the land shape people….and how do people shape the land? On May 20, Friends of Rogers will host the first session of “The Artist As Naturalist,” a three-part series which focuses on art as a personal experience with nature, and how one’s own individual experiences influence artistic creation.
“Field Sketching: Don’t Be Afraid To Go In To The Woods” will be held from 1 until 3:30 pm at Rogers Environmental Education Center in Sherburne. Designed for those who are just beginning with drawing or those who are looking for a refresher, instructional emphasis will be on analysis of basic shapes and forms, value, and capturing the essence of the subject. Guided practice with drawing media and observational techniques will precede the onsite work. Artists will have opportunities to explore subjects of choice in two different settings within the trail system at Rogers Center. The role of the artist sketchbook from a historic standpoint in aiding the works of artist such as Winslow Homer and the Hudson River School of Art members will be introduced.
“Our founding director, John Weeks, is a prime example of ‘The Artist as Naturalist,’ and we’ve been inspired by his example to offer this unique new program at Rogers Center,” said Simon Solomon, executive director. “Participants are sure to be inspired by nature when they experience the outdoors as an extension of their own creative expression.”
“Field Sketching: Don’t Be Afraid To Go In To The Woods” is recommended for ages 13 and older. Pre-registrations are due by noon on May 19; admission is $10 for per member and $12. All materials are included.
Rogers Center is operated by Friends of Rogers Environmental Education Center, Inc., a nonprofit organization that offers educational programs for people of all ages. Seasonal hours are from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday, and from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday.
“The Artist As Naturalist” is made possible with public funds from the Chenango Arts Council’s Decentralization Program, a re-grant program of the NYS Council on the Arts, with support from Gov. Andrew Cuomo and the NYS Legislature.