Wild Life Drawing Online: Oak Trees

Oakie dokie, who’s ready for a tree-mendous class? Get your pencils sharpened because we are chuffed to be teaming up with SUGi, to draw and learn about the mighty Oak Tree. This beautiful species are known as the ‘Kings of Biodiversity’ because the health of the oak population of a forest dramatically affects the health of the forest as a whole. In fact, 326 species are entirely dependent on the oak alone and another 229 are rarely found on any other type of tree! 

SUGi is the largest worldwide community of Miyawaki forest makers (this means that they employ a particular forest growing method named after the Japanese botanist who developed it, Dr Akira Miyawaki). The community have planted close to 200,000 native trees in locations all over the world. We will be joined by SUGi’s own expert forest maker James Godfrey-Faussett. James will tell us all about the inspiring work that the project does, explain the Miyawaki method and teach us some mind blowing facts about oak trees (Did you know they can live up to 1000 years and produce about 10 million acorns over their lifetime?!). 

The class with be lead by artist and wildlife enthusiast Laura Cuppage who will begin with a demo and some tips on botanical drawing. We will be working from some beautiful reference images of oak trees. As the session progresses, Laura will be on hand for creative guidance, and James will be happy to any questions you have! 

The basic materials you need to take part are paper, a pencil, eraser and sharpener, but of course you are more than welcome to work in whatever materials you enjoy or have to hand. Please get in touch if you need advice on materials, we’re happy to help! You will be emailed the reference images, instructions and the Zoom link to join 48 hours before the event is due to start, or in good time if you booked your ticket closer to the event.

50% of ticket profits will be donated to SUGi, so by taking part you will help get more trees planted, hurrah!