What can a bird’s bones reveal about how it flies, dives, and survives? If you are looking for something fun to do in the spirit of Halloween, why not "play with bones" this October and come join us at The Whale Museum for a two-hour nature journaling class exploring the remarkable structure of Salish Sea birds. Participants will get an up-close look at real avian skulls, wings, feet, and skeletal specimens generously on loan from Salish Wildlife Rescue, using drawing as a way to investigate the relationship between form, function, and the lives of birds. The instructor, Quinn Fitzpatrick, will be teaching virtually in real time via Zoom while participants either gather in person at The Whale Museum and work directly with the specimens or join virtually. Wine and snacks will be provided for those participating in person at TWM.
In this class, you will:
• Learn core observational techniques. Practice shape, form, proportion, value, texture, and negative space to make complex natural forms easier to draw.
• Train your eyes to see like a naturalist. Use sketching as an active tool to slow down, notice details, ask questions, and discover connections between form and function.
• Explore how structure reflects function. Compare specimens side by side and consider what skulls, wings, feet, and bones can reveal about different ways of moving, feeding, and living.
• Build a deeper connection to local wildlife. Leave with practical nature-journaling techniques and a richer understanding of birds that live in and around the Salish Sea. Rather than focusing on making a “perfect” drawing, this workshop uses sketching as a tool for curiosity and observation. We’ll compare birds with very different ways of living, from divers and underwater “flyers” to waders and fish-hunting raptors, and consider what their anatomy can tell us about life in the Salish Sea.
Whether you haven't picked up a pencil in decades or keep a field sketchbook every day, you’ll find plenty of room for observation, discovery and deeper study. A supplies list will be provided upon registration.
Quinn Fitzpatrick is a naturalist and educator who helps people connect with the natural world through creativity. They have more than 15 years of experience teaching learners of all ages. Quinn is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Environmental Studies and brings a scienceinformed perspective to their work, helping people notice and understand the more-than-human world. A graduate of the University of Washington’s Natural Science Illustration program, they specialize in botanical and landscape drawing and place-based nature journaling. Quinn believes that everyone can draw inspiration from nature through attention, curiosity, and practice.
Questions can be directed to Tracie Merrill through email.