Painting Our Preserves

Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature while exploring the art of plein air watercolor painting with instructor and Chippewa Watershed Conservancy Artist in Residence awardee Cheryl Meyer. This course offers a unique opportunity to connect with the landscape as we paint in the protected natural areas of the Chippewa Watershed Conservancy preserves. Learn how to capture in watercolors the tranquil Chippewa River and the serene surroundings of Starks Preserve, Audubon Woods, Hiawatha Hills, and Halls Lake Natural Area.
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced artist, this class will guide you through the fundamentals of plein air painting, including sketching, color mixing, composition, and watercolor techniques. We’ll explore how to work with natural light, the changing weather, and the dynamic environment around us to create stunning, atmospheric pieces of art that reflect the beauty of our local Chippewa watershed preserves.
This course takes place from 9 am-noon on Fridays, June 5-26, at the following four Chippewa Watershed Conservancy preserves in Isabella County. Students may register for individual sessions or select the full four-session course for a discounted rate.
June 5: Starks Preserve
June 12: Audubon Woods
June 19: Bundy Hill
June 26: Halls Lake Natural Area
Note: all painting supplies will be provided. If you have supplies, we suggest one pan watercolor set for outdoors, assorted brushes, & water. All students should bring a camp chair, drinking water, sunblock, and bug spray. Each location will have a short hike into the preserve. Students will meet in the parking area for each preserve. In the event of rain, we may paint from a pop-up tent or reschedule. Determination will be made in the morning of each session.
Recommended age: 16 and up
Please note: An active membership is not required to register. Active members receive a 15% discount on classes.