Portraits of Trees: A Drawing Workshop In Color

Through still and attentive observation of the trees around us, we ease into a deeply restorative connection with place—an experience at the heart of a forest retreat at Breitenbush Hot Springs. Taking the time to look closely at the natural world offers a calming sense of purpose and presence rarely found in our day-to-day routines.

“Stillness is the altar of the spirit.” — Paramahansa Yogananda

In this workshop, participants will practice drawing trees from direct observation. Much of our time will be spent outdoors—or looking out from the warmth of indoor spaces—with sketchbooks in hand. As we turn our attention to the forest, we will explore the core building blocks of drawing, including:

• Proportion
• Form
• Value
• Scale
• Line quality
• Composition

We will apply these fundamentals to sketching individual trees and clusters of trees throughout the Breitenbush landscape. After grounding ourselves in how light and shadow create form, we will begin to explore color as an expressive and structural tool. A range of drawing media will be used, including:

• Charcoal
• Graphite
• Acrylic paint pens (sets provided)

The techniques introduced in this workshop are transferable to drawing the human figure and other representational subjects, making this an excellent foundational course for beginners and a supportive skill-building opportunity for intermediate artists. Seasoned artists are invited to enjoy the forest sanctuary and are welcome to bring materials of their choice. Sketchbooks and drawing supplies are included with the registration fee.

All levels are welcome.

The retreat schedule is viewable here.