Timeless Trees week 1: What is a tree? (an introduction)

Creative expression inspired by botanical science

You know what a tree is. Right? The answer may surprise you.

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About the Timeless Trees series

Botany and nature-inspired art are both fueled by awe and a deep appreciation for the natural world. This series of creative online sessions brings the two together. In Timeless Trees, we use the wondrous world of biology as a point of departure for making creative work. Do you love to draw trees, but wish you knew more about them? Would you like to let the story of trees guide you in spontaneous, exploratory artmaking? Join me as we travel slowly back in time and observe trees across different timescales.

Each week, we explore trees within a different timeframe. We’ll encounter the seasonal rhythms of a calendar year, consider the century it takes for a seedling to become a stately giant, and dive into deep time to meet the very first trees that lived over 300 million years ago.

In every session, I draw on my background in botany to introduce a scientifically grounded and awe-inspiring aspect of tree biology. We then spend time responding creatively on paper. The emphasis here is on the creative process, letting yourself be led by what fascinates you, and having fun. There is ample time to share questions, thoughts—and of course your creative work!

You are welcome to sign up for one or two individual sessions, or for the full five-session series.

All scientific and artistic skill levels are welcome. No prior background in either field is required.

Sessions are held live on Zoom and are interactive. Instruction is in English.

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What you need to take part

to work with

• paper suitable for mixed media
• marker pens (black)
• and/or coloured markers
• PVA glue and/or a glue stick
• scissors
• masking and/or clear tape
• paper collage materials
• collage materials foraged outside (leaves, flowers, seeds, etc.)
• your choice of paints or inks (and brushes)
• any other materials you think enjoy working with (spaghetti, crayons, kitchen sponges, bubble wrap—no judgement!)

to work on

• a comfortable amount of desk space (or your kitchen table)

to connect

• access to a computer with wifi and a webcam
• a (phone with a) camera
• Zoom and a Google account (both are freely accessible)