Field Notes with artist James Winrow

An immersive workshop that explores nature and place through art and writing with natural history artist James Winrow.

You will explore river, pasture, meadows and woodland. Field sketching, note taking and observing along the way. Returning to produce pieces of art, drawing inspiration from your collective field work.

Expect a gentle, playful mix of shared experience, artist techniques and practice, reading, writing and encouragement to see and encounter the natural world more vividly. You’ll explore techniques for studying and drawing the intricate details of the natural world.

This workshop invites you to slow down, look closely, and capture the beauty of botanical forms with expert guidance.

All abilities are welcome. Art materials will be provided, though you are also welcome to bring your own.

The Tutor

James grew up at the foot of the South Downs in Sussex where he roamed the chalk hills bird watching, drawing, exploring and fishing. Professionally trained as a graphic designer and photographer, the whisper of the wild was never far away, so after a stint running a design studio, he took a much-needed sabbatical, getting his hands in the dirt working on farms around the UK and living in Grizzly bear country in Northern British Columbia. Returning to the UK he worked for two years leading nature awareness and bushcraft courses for children and adults, immersed in the rich Devon countryside. This ongoing rewilding of heart and mind led him to unearth the first love of his life, drawing the natural world. Discovering the deep connection between the observer and the observed, he now loves to share this magic with others, drawing them deeper into nature. His work is sold in various shops in the UK and USA and is also held in private collections in both countries. He is married with four children and lives just inside the Dartmoor National Park on the edge of a wooded river valley, surrounded by birdsong.

Dorset Wildlife Trust partner cafe The Kitchen at Kingcombe will be open and offers a delicious range of food and drinks. Please see their Facebook page for latest opening times and seasonal menu.

All money raised helps to support the vital conservation work of Dorset Wildlife Trust, protecting wildlife now and for future generations to come.

Times: Arrive from 9.45am for a 10am start. Course will finish 4pm.

What to bring: As you will be outside; please bring suitable clothing, wet weather jackets, good walking shoes and a backpack to carry personal belongings.

Photos: James Winrow

Terms and Conditions for Participants

DWT reserves the right to cancel the course at any time. In the event of DWT cancelling an event, a full refund will be issued.

DWT reserves the right to reschedule events in the event of unfavourable conditions and offer alternative dates or issue a full refund.

Courses will only take place if the minimum number is achieved. If the minimum number is not achieved, an alternative date will be offered, or a full refund will be issued.

Cancelling your booking

Cancellations are accepted at the discretion of Dorset Wildlife Trust and a reasonable cancellation cause should be provided by the participant.

You may request a cancellation up to 14 days before the date of the course or workshop. You may be charged an administration fee.