Sometimes we discover a more intimate look at nature right at our feet. Plants, flowers, seeds, mushrooms and pine cones are all fascinating sketching subjects—it’s a magic world in miniature.
How do the leaves grow? How are they shaped? What form does the flower have? What did that seed come from? What kind of moss or mushroom is that? Make written notes of any observations as you go along and you’ll find it easier to identify an unfamiliar flower.
Nina Khashchina gets right down to ground level to find the plants and other treasures she and her son observe on their walks.
Here, Nina has sketched lichen, moss, a pine cone and a twig keeping the appropriate perspective and size in mind.
Even the most familiar, common flowers are worth your attention. I got nose-to-nose with this red clover. A quick gesture sketch was enough to tell me I wanted to explore further.
Why not explore your own backyard and get to know the weeds or wildflowers you find there? Do a fast sketch or take your time and enjoy a meditative drawing. Imagine yourself as a botanist or an herbalist of the old school.