Start 2025 with Birds + Creativity
Kick off 2025 with Birdability and our partners as we celebrate the transformative power of creativity, community, and connection with nature through birds. Inspired by Amy Tan’s journey back to art through nature journaling lessons with renowned naturalist and educator John Muir Laws, we’re hosting a series of events to spark your creativity and deepen your connection to birds.
All events begin at 7:00 P.M. ET/6:00 P.M. CT/ 5:00 P.M. MT/ 4:00 P.M. PT on the dates below.
READ - January 15: Join the Birdability Book Club as we discuss The Backyard Bird Chronicles, Amy Tan’s heartfelt exploration of birdwatching and the creative joy it brings. Equal parts sketches and reflections, her book reminds us it’s never too late to rediscover your artistic side: "When I was a child, I wanted to be an artist but was discouraged from trying. At age 65, I finally returned to drawing..." As Amy Tan also shares in the book, "Birds bring us to the present, a refuge from worries about the past or future." Please register HERE to join us on the 15th.
WRITE - January 23: Participate in the Spark Bird Salon featuring the Spark Bird Project. Share the story of the bird, person, or experience that ignited your love of birding, and help ensure the project reflects the voices of folks with disabilities. This ongoing community science initiative gathers stories to inspire and sustain birders everywhere. Registration is here for both WRITE and DRAW.
DRAW - February 7: Join John Muir Laws for a workshop on sketching birds! Discover tricks and shortcuts to draw the birds you see outside your window or on your birding adventures. No prior experience is needed—just bring your curiosity and enthusiasm! Registration is here for both WRITE and DRAW.
Anyone is welcome to join any or all of these sessions! Please note that the February 7th workshop will focus on drawing birds using traditional tools like pencils and paper, which may make it less accessible for those who do not have the use of their hands. We celebrate all forms of creativity and encourage adaptations to ensure everyone feels included.
