The “research phase” has officially begun for my summer workshop, Drawn to Nature, at Madeline Island School of the Arts on Lake Superior, June 20–24, 2026. I’m starting with the wide view—looking at the Great Lakes as a whole—before narrowing in on Lake Superior and the many things that make Madeline Island so special.

Drawing a map always helps me focus. It gives me a sense of the land, water, and geography that shape a place. From there, I begin layering in plant communities, wildlife, and human history—the roots from which cultural traditions, foodways, and arts grow.

I love weaving all of this into a sketchbook, and I invite you to join me for the workshop as we explore different ways to capture the beauty, wonder, and diversity of the natural world in your own sketches. Learn more and register here.