Wild Life Drawing: Ancient Trees

Epping Forest is a truly magical place, home to centuries old trees that have seen countless seasons and generations come and go. These old oaks, hornbeams and beech trees have remained rooted to the ground, adding new rings to their trunks and providing homes and habitats to more and more species as they grow. This forest is home to over 55,000 ancient trees, shaped by traditional wood harvesting and pollarding with some famous examples like the massive King oak (over 750 years old) and the Bellringers Hollow Beeches, living relics of ancient times at over a thousand years old.

Join us for a gentle walking tour through the forest trails, where we will stop and sketch some of these important trees. We will be joined by Noreen Niazi, Community Engagement Lead at the Epping Forest Heritage Trust who will be sharing the history and heritage of the forest as we stroll. During April we will be seeing the signs of Spring, spotting the emerging bluebells and early butterflies as we listen to the joyous birdsong of the first warmer days.

Nature artist Jennie Webber will be leading the workshop, with drawing exercises, tips and live demos to help you get the most out of the session. We will be looking at the anatomy and growth patterns of different tree species, and experimenting with mark making to capture the leaves, branches and textures. The aim is for you to go home not only with drawings you can be proud of, but also a good understanding and appreciation for ancient trees.

All portable drawing materials will be supplied, and all ability levels and artistic styles are very welcome – especially beginners. Children 12 and over are very welcome if accompanied by an adult also taking part in the class. 

The class includes a donation to the Epping Forest Heritage Trust and a community focussed session for local groups.

Please note: Tickets are non-refundable and cannot be moved to another class, but can be transferred to another name- just get in touch to let us know who will be attending. We do sometimes have waiting lists for sessions, so if the class you have tickets for is sold out and you can’t make it, please email info@wildlifedrawing.co.uk with as much notice as possible and we will try our best to re-allocate your tickets. If we are able to do so you will be given a credit for another class.