So we’ve covered all the basics to get started in the practice of nature journaling. But once you have started, where could you go next? Well look no further than this post!
Helpful Hint #1: Find a Community
With a practice like nature journaling, I find an easy way to improve is to find others who are interested in doing the same. And in today’s modern age, you have the option of either in-person or online platforms to connect with other like-minded individuals. Below are a few of my suggestions:
1. Facebook Groups
If you are a Facebook user, there are a number of phenomenal groups of nature journalers. I am currently a member of several groups, including:
- The Nature Journal Club: https://www.facebook.com/groups/naturejournalclub
- Nature Journaling For Curiosity and Well-Being: https://www.facebook.com/groups/naturejournal4curiositywellbeing
- Nature Journaling For A Wild Life: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2766601770295438
- How To Teach Nature Journaling: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2449609045282303
2. Nature Journal Club
If you prefer a more in-person approach, a nature journaling club might be the perfect thing. There is a handy map created by Wild Wonder (more on them later) that shows Nature Journal Clubs around the world: https://www.wildwonder.org/nature-journal-club-map . And if you don’t see one near you, it could be great to start one in your community. Some clubs have regular outings, while others are more infrequent.
I could not write this post without giving credit to the organization that helped me rediscover nature journaling. Wild Wonder offers classes, in-person and online meetups, and an amazing annual conference (and now a second one just for educators!). This community absolutely is open to everyone and reflects a wide variety of skills and interests. There is a community calendar with information about upcoming events for all levels. Through the wonders of technology, you also have the option to view recordings of many of the events, though some charge a small fee.
Helpful Hint #2: Find a Teacher
There are a number of fantastic individuals who teach nature journaling (and there is no way I could list them all) – but here are a few folks I’ve been fortunate enough to learn from.
John Muir Laws – I don’t think I could have written this list (or this post) without mentioning John Muir Laws. His work has brought nature journaling to people all over the world, in-person and online. He has written several books and regularly teaches online classes. Attending some of these events definitely helped me become a more confident and comfortable nature journaler.
Marley Peifer – Marley hosts the web series “The Nature Journal Show” on Youtube. If you have a topic you want to learn more about, chances are that there is a show that has talked about it. He also teaches and leads nature journaling outings around the world.
Roseann Hanson – Roseann also does an amazing job teaching nature journaling and leading excursions. If you’ve ever wondered where I got the idea to integrate maps more in my journals, this is where! I also love the way she includes metadata in her entries.
Fiona Gillogly – If you like to ask questions and want to see how to include them in your journal, Fiona’s work is a fantastic model. Her question chains are incredible to read and the accompanying images also add to it. I definitely aspire to ask more questions in my journal in the same way.
Helpful Hint #3: Don’t Be Afraid To Try Something New
As we discussed in a previous post, sometimes it can be easy to get stuck in the muck with your creative practice. When that happens for me, I like to try something new. Seek out a site I have never journaled before. Take a closer look at a plant I’ve walked by hundreds of times. Try adding a new feature to my journal. Or when in doubt – ask more questions!
Each of these always grants me a new perspective and a greater appreciation of the world around me. Continuing to work at the practice of nature journaling gives me the chance to see and record things I might otherwise miss out on – like an egret chasing a kingfisher around a pond or a tiny mushroom growing on a tree.
I hope you have found these tips and resources helpful. May you encounter great wonder out there on your nature journal journey!
Fernheart Designs 