Drawn to Nature: Observing Nature with a Pencil

Select pages from Carleen Zimmman’s personal nature journals

Why do people sketch, photograph, or write in journals? For many, these creative expressions are a way to connect more deeply with the world around them. Our newest interactive exhibit, Drawn to Nature, by longtime member Carleen Ormbrek Zimmerman, explores how being a “birder with a sketchbook” has become a powerful tool for observation, learning, and appreciating nature.

Through Carleen’s stunning personal nature journals, now on display, visitors can see firsthand how field sketching offers ways to slow down and engage with the beauty and complexity of the natural world. As Carleen shares, “My excuse for sketching has always been because I am drawn to birds. I teach others that field sketching is not drawing. It is about using art and language to record quick observations. It has become my way of creating personal visual diaries of the unique habitats, sounds, and behaviors of birds.”

This exhibit invites everyone—artists and non-artists alike—to create their own quick sketch of one of our bird specimens on display or head outside for a short urban nature walk and capture their observations as if it was a nature journal. Visitors are provided with art materials and inspiration to document sights and sounds.

Sketching can build awareness of our surroundings, offering insight into both the habitat and the broader community of people and wildlife we share it with. Whether through journaling, eBirding, scientific illustration, or simply pausing to observe, art can serve as a personal bridge between curiosity and conservation.

Drawn to Nature is the first in a series of rotating exhibits celebrating birds and the natural world at our downtown headquarters.

Let Birding Draw Out the Artist in You

An Introduction to Field Sketching and Nature Journaling
An in-person class with Carleen Ormbrek Zimmerman

 Saturday, December 13, 2025, 12:00 – 2:00 p.m.

Our new headquarters features rotating and permanent exhibits designed to inspire and educate the public about birds and conservation.

Always free, come by to see the latest exhibits on display and receive a tour from our volunter docents and staff.