Adult Art

Spring & Summer

drawing birds in nature

14 Yr Olds-Adults

Perfect for nature and/or art enthusiasts! This class will guide you through the techniques needed to capture the elegance and detail of birds, while also getting to enjoy all the benefits of nature. We’ll cover basic bird identification characteristics and then develop our drawing techniques as we sketch birds using photographs and real-life observation. Bring binoculars (not required, but helpful), drawing supplies (paper, clipboard, journal, pencil, pen, coloring tools, etc.) and an easy-to-carry folding chair. The path is accessible for wheelchairs and participants will have the option to sit in one place or meander. All artistic and bird watching skill levels are welcome!

  • Register Here (Registration Opens Jan 20)
  • Cost: $25r/$40nr
  • Instructor: Ria VanderKlok
  • Date: Fri, May 23
  • Time: 9:00am-11:00am
  • Location: Upper Macatawa Natural Area (1300 84th Ave, Zeeland - 84th Ave Entrance)

botanical sketching in nature

14 Yr Olds-Adults

Immerse yourself in the beauty of the natural world through our Botanical Sketching in Nature program! Perfect for artists and nature enthusiasts alike, this program combines field exploration with hands-on sketching. Participants will learn to observe and capture the intricate details of plants, flowers, and trees using a few fundamental sketching techniques. Whether you want to enhance your art skills or simply enjoy a peaceful outdoor activity, this program is for you! Please bring binoculars and/or a magnifying glass (not required, but helpful), drawing supplies (paper, clipboard, journal, pencil, pen, coloring tools, etc.) and an easy-to-carry folding chair. The path is accessible for wheelchairs and participants will have the option to sit in one place or meander. All artistic and natural experience levels are welcome. 

  • Register Here (Registration Opens Jan 20)
  • Cost: $25r/$40nr
  • Instructor: Ria VanderKlok
  • Date: Fri, June 13
  • Time: 5:30pm-8:00pm
  • Location: Upper Macatawa Natural Area (1300 84th Ave, Zeeland - 84th Ave Entrance)

art for relaxation

18 Yr Olds+

Unleash your creativity and embrace some moments of relaxation in this engaging and soothing class designed for artists, creators, and anyone seeking a moment of calm in their busy lives. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just starting out, this class is perfect for all skill levels. Each session introduces a new medium and explores techniques to help you create art you love while enjoying the process. Join us for the full series or drop in for the sessions that spark your interest—no experience necessary, just bring your curiosity and a willingness to unwind through art.

  • Register Here (Registration Opens Jan 20)
  • Cost: $40r/$55nr
  • Instructor: Taelia Spencer (Art Education Major at GVSU)
  • Oil Pastels: Fri, June 27 | 6:30pm-8:00pm 
  • Abstract Acrylic Painting: Fri, July 25  | 6:30pm-8:00pm 
  • Collage Making: Fri, Aug 22 | 6:30pm-8:00pm 
  • Location: Cityside Middle School - ELA room

watercolor in nature

14 Yr Olds-Adults

Join us to explore nature’s beauty while learning the techniques of watercolor painting! We will take to the trail and paint what we see as we go. Participants will learn a few field sketching and watercolor techniques to help get what you notice onto your paper as we look closely, ask questions, and develop our skill of observing the world around us. All supplies will be provided and participants will go home with a watercolor journal, watercolor field kit, and water brush. The path is accessible for wheelchairs and participants will have the option to sit in one place or meander. 

  • Register Here (Registration Opens Jan 20)
  • Cost: $75r/$90nr
  • Instructor: Ria VanderKlok
  • Date: Fri, July 11
  • Time: 5:30pm-8:00pm
  • Location: Upper Macatawa Natural Area (1300 84th Ave, Zeeland - 84th Ave Entrance)