Experience the Healing Power of Nature. We'll begin with a gentle, guided forest bathing session, allowing you to slow down, engage your senses, and connect deeply with the island's tranquil forests, meadows or wetlands. Discover the unique flora and fauna of Nantucket, breathing in the fresh, salty air, and absorbing the calming atmosphere of the natural environment. Spread across 2.5 hours the class is designed to provide a relaxing and creative experience, fostering a deeper appreciation for both art and the natural world. Whether you're a seasoned artist or a beginner, you'll be encouraged to express your personal connection with nature through your drawings. Guidance for learning techniques to capture textures, shapes and subtle details are provided for strengthening drawing skills. Each student will leave having learned the art of forest bathing and how to begin a nature journal.
Side Note:
Forest bathing or shinrin-yoku originated in Japan in the 1980's as a self care practice to address stress, insomnia, anxiety & depression. Known as forest therapy or nature bathing, it has gained popularity as a way to slow down and connect with your senses. Allowing what you see, hear, smell and feel to be a restorative experience and in this case artistic inspiration!
Shinrin-yoku can be more than just looking at beautiful trees. Three distinct concepts of Japanese culture come into play:
- Yūgen: Experience awareness of nature's beauty...not expressed in words. Being in awe of the forest is a practice of yūgen.
- Komorebi: Focus on the interplay of the sun and the natural surroundings.
- Wabi-sabi: Enjoying and respecting the natural beauty of imperfection and ephemerality... and feeling its allure.
