Fascinated by the intersection of science and art? Spend a day learning all about the field of scientific illustration! In this workshop, you'll receive a hands-on introduction to scientific illustration skills, practice observational drawing, explore the topic of visual science communication, and walk away with supplies to begin your own science-art practice! Open to artists of all skill-levels.

Got birds on the brain? Join artist and museum professional Madison Mayfield on World Migratory Bird Day for birding and sketching to fill that bird-sized hole in your life! In this 3.5 hour workshop, you’ll go birding in Cowen/Ravenna Park (binocs provided or BYO), learn to identify your common local birds, gain an understanding for bird anatomy (using real taxidermy specimens from the Burke Museum) and learn how to sketch and even paint your favorite birds! Class fee includes all necessary art supplies that attendees will get to take home at the end of the day.

This class is open to novices and experts alike! We will be birding rain or shine, so be sure to bring a rain jacket. Maximum 10 participants.

BURKE MUSEUM TALK

How do science writers and illustrators collect the data, information, and stories that inform their art? Join three Pacific Northwest artists — two writers and one illustrator — to learn how they distill their research on our local seabirds into engaging stories and compelling illustrations. You’ll hear stories from Madison Mayfield, a science illustrator, taxidermist, and Assistant Collections Manager of the Burke Museum’s ornithology collection. You’ll find out how author and community scientist, Maria Mudd Ruth, turned data — and a lack of data— into her new book on the Pigeon Guillemot, The Bird with Flaming Red Feet. Eric Wagner, author and professional scientist, will share secrets for collecting and interpreting data on nocturnal Rhinoceros Auklets for his new book, Seabirds as Sentinels.

Join Maria Mudd Ruth, Eric Wagner, and Madison Mayfield for a succinct illustrated presentation followed by lively conversation moderated by science journalist Sarah DeWeert. Guillemots, auklets, and other seabird specimens will be on display for a close-up look courtesy of the Burke Museum's ornithology collection.

Got birds on the brain? Join artist and museum professional Madison Mayfield for a day of birding and sketching to fill that bird-sized hole in your life! In this 3.5 hour workshop, you’ll go birding in Cowen/Ravenna Park (binocs provided or BYO), learn to identify your common local birds, gain an understanding for bird anatomy (using real taxidermy specimens from the Burke Museum) and learn how to sketch and even paint your favorite birds! Class fee includes all necessary art supplies that attendees will get to take home at the end of the day.

This class is open to novices and experts alike! We will be birding rain or shine, so be sure to bring a rain jacket. Maximum 12 participants.

Produced in partnership with the Burke Museum of Natural History

Friday, February 7 
7–10 p.m.

$35 for Burke members; $40 for general admission

Enjoy drinks and light refreshments as you create your own winged masterpiece. With skilled illustrators available to provide guidance and inspiration from museum specimens, this is the perfect evening to draw your own connections with art, science, and community — whether you're an experienced artist or picking up a pencil for the first time. This event is 21+ with valid ID only. 

Register Here!

Produced in partnership with the Burke Museum of Natural History

Thursday, January 30
6:30–8 p.m.

$15 for Burke members; $20 for general admission 

This unique virtual program will showcase how researchers and illustrators collaborate to transform scientific findings into compelling images. Learn the latest in hummingbird research with Dr. Alejandro Rico-Guevara and draw-along with Madison Mayfield as she creates an initial sketch. Experience firsthand the power of collaboration in making artwork that is both beautiful and scientifically accurate.

Register Here!

Join myself and taxidermist Betty Putnam for an exciting open studio event! We will be showing off and selling many of our recent works from hand sculpted flowers to specimen paintings. So stop by to see and even buy some natural history inspired art!

Learn the basics of scientific illustration in this exciting single-day workshop at the Whatcom Museum. Participants will learn the skills needed to create observational drawings and practice both pen & ink and watercolor techniques.

15 participants maximum

Cost:
$125, members
$150, non-members
Price includes all art supplies, which students will keep after the workshop, and museum admission on September 21.

Register Here!

Learn the basics of scientific illustration in this exciting single-day workshop at the Whatcom Museum. Participants will learn the skills needed to create observational drawings and practice both pen & ink and watercolor techniques.

15 participants maximum

Cost:
$125, members
$150, non-members
Price includes all art supplies, which students will keep after the workshop, and museum admission on July 20.

Class currently full. Sign up for the waitlist!

Join Madison at the Grays Harbor Shorebird Festival and learn how to keep a field journal in this free workshop! Open to artists of all skill levels.

Don’t forget to bring your drawing supplies!

See the festival events page for more info.