Wild Life Drawing Online: Hedgerows

How much do you think you know about hedgerows? Easily overlooked, these thin strips of land between roads and fields are rich habitats that support all kinds of life. Made up of brambles, grasses, trees and berry bushes, hedgerows provide essential food and shelter for hedgehogs (the clue is in the name) dormice, birds (native and migratory) and many pollinating insects. They also provide natural corridors for species to roam and find mates outside of the monoculture farmland. 

Hedgerows have had it tough over the last seventy years, with industrial farming and pesticides threatening their existence, just as we begin to realise how biologically important they really are! Luckily we have self-professed 'hedgerow geek' Megan Gimber to share her knowledge and boundless enthusiasm. Her work with PTES takes her up and down the country for workshops with farmers, councils and landowners to raise the profile of the humble hedge. And here's the thing, hedges also depend on humans. In a mutual back-scratching relationship over hundreds of years, we have been trimming and coppicing hedges for our own aesthetic pleasure, which in turn helps new growth.

The class will be led by artist and illustrator Jennie Webber, who will guide you through the process of composing a hedgerow artwork comprised of a variety of foliage, mammals and insects. We will aim to create full page drawings that reflect the diversity and vibrancy of these slender habitats. As the session progresses Jennie and Megan will discuss all things hedgerow, and there will be plenty of time to ask your questions. All abilities are welcome to join the session, and there will be plenty of creative guidance throughout. We will draw from references for this one, and a chunky pack of images will be sent to you prior to the class. 

Before the class you’ll need to get your hands on some paper, a pencil, and any other materials you might like to work with. We will email you beforehand with a Zoom link and some instructions. As with all our classes, we will send out a recording afterwards to all ticket holders so you can catch up/ rewatch as many times as you like. 

50% of profits will be donated to PTES (People's Trust for Endangered Species).