Classes
“Time in the Forest: Watercolor Journaling as Nature Connection”
A two-day workshop on August 10 – 11, 2026
Sitka Center for Art & Ecology on the Oregon Coast
Nature connection, creativity and mindfulness come together in the practice of nature journaling in this two-day workshop that will give participants the skills and space to connect to themselves, to nature and to one another through nature journaling. Participants will learn a variety of techniques in watercoloring, stamp-carving, drawing and writing and be given prompts and guidance to crate their own “conversation with Nature” in the way that feels authentic to themselves. We will spend time at Sitka’s large nature preserve, as well as in the classroom, observing, appreciating, reflecting on and celebrating the nature around us through writing, drawing and watercoloring.
Learn more and register here: Sitka Center Workshop Listing
Classes
A half-day nature journaling experience at the Banks-Vernonia State Trail
Sunday, August 23, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Join me in Buxton, Oregon 30 minutes west of Portland to connect to nearby nature and other people who love to be outside and create in a nature journal. This year will be the third time I’ve led this half-day nature journaling experience at the Buxton Trailhead of the Banks-Vernonia State Trail, and this year’s theme is Symbols and Stories. The day will begin with a 30-40 minute gentle hike that will familiarize ourselves with the space, followed by gathering at the picnic shelter for an early packed lunch, and an introduction to the watershed and wildflowers of the area picnic tables to work in our journals to capture the beauty of this space. The park features a beautiful wooden railroad trestle, wildflowers, sunny meadows, and a pond and stream that connect to the Tualatin River watershed. This year we will also have the opportunity to carve our own rubber stamps to symbolize our personal connection to specific aspects of this nature space.
Cost: $60.00
What to bring:
Your nature journal or sketchbook and your favorite journaling supplies…pens, pencils, small watercolor sets, watercolor pencils, etc. If you prefer to work in an accordian journal like the one pictured above, I will have some for purchase the day of the workshop for $10.00
A stamp carving tool and carving rubber (optional…bring them if you have them) I will have some for us to use if you don’t bring your own.
A packed lunch and bottled water for drinking
A small towel, blanket or camp chair for sitting (there are also picnic tables and benches)
A sun hat and sunscreen for sunny spots
Wear comfortable walking or hiking shoes
Register by emailing Elizabeth here: e.m.higgins@icloud.com
Classes, Uncategorized
FALL 2026 STARTS ON SEPTEMBER 15
Tuesday mornings, 10:00 – 11:15 AM PST on Zoom
Six sessions September 15 – October 20, 2026
Cost: $75
Recordings only option: $40
All sessions are recorded for the option of viewing later
Simplicity, observation and creativity come together in this series of weekly drawing and painting classes inpsired by nature. Experience the healing properties of nature and art by following Elizabeth’s gentle guidance as we explore various drawing and painting exercises that are relaxing, fun and meditative. Set judgement and expectations aside as you nourish your well-being in your own personal nature sketchbook. Grow a garden in your journal and experience joy in the process!
Classes will include:
- Interactive conversation about plant symbolism and meaning
- A variety of simple drawing techniques that anyone can master
- Basic watercolor instruction with an emphasis on simplicity and using the materials you are most comfortable with.
All sessions are recorded and sent to students each week for viewing or reviewing on your own schedule.
Suggested supplies: A sketchbook or spiral-bound pad of drawing or mixed-media paper. Drawing pens with permanent ink, such as Micron Pigma pens or Faber-Castel Pitt pens. Pencil and eraser. Ruler. Watercolors of any type…small travel sets are fine. A detailed supply list is available here.
Contact Elizabeth via email to register or ask any questions: e.m.higgins@icloud.com
Classes
Watercolor Explorations
Friday mornings on Zoom 10:00 – 11:30 AM PST
Fall 2026 Session: 10/23, 10/30, 11/6, 11/13, & 11/20 (5 sessions) $90
Recordings only option: $40
These classes will help you show up to paint each week and develop a habit to hopefully keep you painting! In these weekly classes, Elizabeth will demonstrate various watercolor techniques and talk about color theory, composition, and elements of design. Each session will include a demo of technique and step-by-step instruction for mapping out a painting exercise for participants to finish after class at their own pace. There will also be time for Q & A. Practice your technical skills and gain confidence in developing your own painting toolkit and individual style. Basic watercolor knowledge is helpful.
Please contact Elizabeth to register and ask any questions: e.m.higgins@icloud.com
Classes
“The Way of the Water”
A two-day workshop on September 8 – 9, 2026
Sitka Center for Art & Ecology, Otis, Oregon
Explore the threshold of sand and sea at the nearby Salmon River Estuary and create an accordion-style journal that celebrates the essential element of water and its importance to our inner rhythms and our life on Earth. Participate in a diverse range of nature journaling techniques and nature connection practices. Participants will create their own folded accordian books and fill them with drawings, watercolor, stamp-carved images, writing and other nature art techniques. The workshop will be held in two settings: the Sitka classroom and the shoreline of the Salmon River at Knight Park.
Learn more and register here: The Way of the Water
Classes
Spring 2026 – Registration opens Wednesday, December 10
I teach beginner level watercolor classes and nature journaling at the Walter’s Cultural Arts Center in downtown Hillsboro. Spring classes will begin in April 2026. Check their website for complete details and registration.
Walter’s Cultural Arts Center Classes
