Making art, says Peter London, is a perfect vehicle for recovering our lost sense of unity with Nature. When we draw closer to Nature through art, we simultaneously draw closer to our Selves, and thereby enjoy a richer, more authentic creativity and a deeper, fuller life. Through exercises, theoretical reflections, poetic meditations, and stories, London presents an innovative approach to creativity that engages body, mind, and spirit. A series of guided "Encounters"—some to be done outdoors, some indoors in the presence of some natural objects, and some entirely in the imagination—invites the reader to investigate Nature's secrets and then to celebrate through making a work of art. Topics and exercises include: the essentials of creative practice, such as time, space, media, and intention; cultivating a simple, firsthand way of seeing Nature in all its subtlety, mystery, and intimacy; creating a personal sanctuary in which to communicate directly with Nature; conducting a sacred conversation with archetypal forms of Nature encountered in the imagination; seeking forgiveness from Nature, with the intention of healing our broken primal relationship with the natural world and rediscovering our rightful place in it.

Educator and art therapist London uses stories, poetic meditations, and guided exercises to show readers how making art in nature can enhance their self-knowledge and creativity. 20 halftones.

In straightforward text complemented by step-by-step illustrations, dozens of exercises lead the hand and mind through creating accurate reproductions of plants and animals as well as landscapes, skies, and more. Laws provides clear, practical advice for every step of the process for artists at every level, from the basics of choosing supplies to advanced techniques.

In Drawing Near, John Bevere invites readers to explore a life of intimacy with God. Emphasizing the need for obedience, he urges us to practice-just as we would practice anything we hope to improve-our communication with the Holy Spirit. Understanding that prayer is a dialogue, not a monologue, Bevere encourages us to listen at the Father's feet. Study questions in each chapter offer opportunity for reflection, and a "How to draw near to God" section offers practical steps toward developing true intimacy with Him.

When students are given fixed and finalized abstractions from the beginning, they do not have to use their own inner forces to overcome the resistance of the world to arrive at truth or to create beauty. The result is that their inner pictures are devoid of life. To arrive at a truth or to create beauty that reflects the order and harmony of the Creator, we must always begin humbly, in ignorance and ugliness. By striving out of ignorance and ugliness toward the true and beautiful, both scientists and artists can bring new, creative forces into the world. Neither memorizing data nor copying a beautiful drawing engages the true imagination of students as it is by drawing a flower from life. It is precisely this lack of an active, striving inner creativity that can result in the frequently overwhelming feelings of anxiety and alienation experienced by so many people today. As a counterbalance, education must--in all areas of knowledge--increasingly focus on the personal creation of what, through its beauty, speaks truth and through its truth radiates beauty. Drawing from the Book of Nature is about both drawing and the natural world of plants and animals. It is a valuable resource for teachers, students, and anyone who wants to develop a capacity for artistic observation of natural phenomena. Dennis Klocek provides a refreshing combination of depth and clarity, offering a wealth of insight into the lives that constitute living nature. The text is supported by easy-to-follow lessons that help the reader bring the kingdoms of nature to life on paper. This book is a resource through which teachers, students, and others can find their own way toward reuniting with beauty and truth.

This companion volume to the PBS-TV series Drawing From Nature represents a spiritual sharing of ideas and techniques by a gifted wildlife artist (School Library Journal). Photos and drawings throughout.

This sketchbook helps kids look more closely at nature and capture what they discover with pencil, pen, and paint. The Nature Explorer's Sketchbook inspires exploration, creativity and observation, with beautiful sketchbook illustrations, ideas and tips, and plenty of space for kids to draw. 20 [ages of instruction andcolor illustrations followed by blank pages, with more hints and examples every ten pages. A perfect tool for home schoolers, environmental education programs, STEAM programs, or to give as a gift to young artists and nature lovers. Ages 10+

Steven Chase s innovative On Earth As it Is uses a compelling blend of theological, scriptural, historical, and cultural discussions to reclaim the role of nature in the formation of Christian spiritual and moral identity. His thought-provoking creation practices will lead readers into more profound knowledge of themselves and their Creator, guide them to greater compassion for their neighbors, instill in them reverence for and companionship with nature, and awaken in them a greater commitment to creation care. · Encourages Christians to read the Bible, pray, and worship out of doors. · Demonstrates the power of nature to soothe and heal the soul. · Advocates befriending God s creation as a crucial element in Christian growth. · Show how the Bible is full of natural images and how nature itself can function as a holy text, testifying to the glory of God. Offers stories, anecdotes, research, scriptural tie-ins, practical advice, and contemplative exercises to help readers experience God in nature.

Chase's innovative work uses a compelling blend of theological, scriptural, historical, and cultural discussions to reclaim the role of nature in the formation of Christian spiritual and moral identity.