Free interactive workshop: Nature studies through sketching

Join us for a 2-hour, beginner-friendly sketching workshop in the Brooklyn Botanic Gardens (BBG) past the ticket check of the 455 Flatbush Ave entrance (corner of Flatbush Ave & Empire Blvd). Led by local artist Anna Balk, we’ll practice observing and recording plant forms through quick silhouette exercises, visual studies, and two guided drawing sessions. Throughout, we’ll talk about what we’re seeing and sketching.

Subject to favorable weather conditions (in the event of inclement weather, the workshop will be rescheduled).

NOTE: The workshop is free, but participants are responsible for getting Brooklyn Botanical Gardens admission and bringing their own workshop supplies.

Workshop supplies: Please bring

• a pencil,
• sturdy paper or sketchbook (something you can write and draw on without the need for additional surfaces), and
• an eraser.

Participants should be:

• 18+ years of age (children aged 12 to 17 are welcome if they’re accompanied by an adult who can supervise them during the workshop)
• Able to communicate in English
• Prepared to move around the garden for 2 hours and stand for short intervals (up to 30 min) as portable seats other than wheelchairs aren’t permitted – the garden is mostly wheelchair accessible and accessible routes will be used as needed

Expect mindful observation, practical technique tips, and at least two completed study sketches among the blooms.

The event is limited to 10 attendees. Please accurately change your RSVP status to allow others to take your spot if you are not able to attend.

We recommend getting BBG tickets online ahead of time, since the ticket lines can get long on good weather weekend days.