Plein Air Trees Up Close: A Day at Jack London State Park
Join our plein air art workshop at Jack London State Park! Learn observational drawing and watercolor techniques inspired by nature. All levels welcome.
program overview
In this one-day workshop, participants will slow down and take a close-up look at the beautiful trees of Jack London State Park. We’ll explore the fascinating details found up close—bark, moss, knots, cracks, textures, patterns, and the subtle variations in color and light that make each tree unique.
Students will spend time observing and drawing aspects of the trees around them while learning and practicing foundational observational drawing skills, including proportion, shape, line, texture, and composition. Through close looking and intentional rendering, we’ll discover the rich variety of forms and textures found in the natural world, and learn how to translate these details into expressive artwork.
Once students have established their drawings, they’ll explore light, shadow, and the colors found within these natural textures using watercolor techniques. Experiment with color, discover ways to suggest texture and depth, and have fun responding creatively to what you see.
Discover the meditative benefits of a plein air art practice while spending meaningful time in nature. By slowing down and looking closely, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the beauty, complexity, and individuality of the trees around you. All levels of experience are welcome!
Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy while taking a break, and a lightweight folding chair if you have one. Otherwise seating is at picnic tables and park benches or on the ground. All other materials are provided.
After the workshop you may choose to go hiking, tour the museum, or walk to the ruins of the Wolf House.
Important note: There is a Vehicle Entry Fee of $15. After the kiosk, veer to the right and proceed to the parking lot. All students will meet the instructor in the parking lot and walk together to the workshop area. Dress for the weather.
instructor Overview
Hannah Day
Hannah Day is a Sonoma County artist who works primarily in the paper arts. She received her MFA from UH Manoa in printmaking, and her etchings are internationally shown and collected. Her personal practice also includes paper cutting, graphite, watercolor, and mixed media.
https://www.hannahdrawstrees.com/
Membership Has Its Benefits
All Silver Memberships and above receive 10% off the registration cost for any class purchase over $40.
Materials fees are not discounted.
Membership helps support our programs, events, and financial aid programs.
Become a member today and find community, connection, and creativity.
Class FAQ
We ask that you notify us at least 10 days in advance of a class if you need to cancel your registration. You may cancel by phone or email and we will gladly offer you a refund or credit toward a future class. If you cancel with less than 10 days’ notice, we will not be able to provide refunds, due to our contractual obligations and material purchases for each class.
Sometimes, the Sonoma Community Center has to cancel a class due to low enrollment or unforeseen circumstances, such as a natural disaster or health emergency. If this happens and we do not offer a reschedule date, you will be refunded 100% of your registration fee (minus the payment processing and services fee), or credit towards a future class. If we are able to offer a reschedule date but you are unable to make the new date, we will gladly offer credit towards a future class.
All credits must be used within 1 year.
You can view our full class policies and guidelines here.
The Sonoma Community Center is committed to creating an accessible learning environment. If you require any special considerations(medical, physical, learning) please share them with Sean Baskin, Program Associate, by emailing him at [email protected] so that he can forward them to the relevant Program Director and Instructor.
Late additions to any program, class, or workshop that has already begun will be allowed on a per-case basis depending upon the Program Director & instructors approval. Late additions will have to pay the full registration cost of the class, along with any materials fees, and will not be prorated for the time missed. You may reach out to the program directors directly, or the Program Associate Sean Baskin at [email protected] to request a late addition.
We are always looking for new instructors. You can fill out the form directly here.
Saturday, October 10, 2026 from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm
Experience Level
All-Levels, Beginning, Intermediate and AdvancedAge(s)
18-overRegistration Cost:
$85
Materials Fee:
$10
Total Registration Cost:
$95
