Getting Started with Nature Journaling

[@keniasedler5223]

"The act of attention is the act of love. The more that we train ourselves to pay attention, the more we are training ourselves to fall in love with this world." Wow. I'm writing that down in my journal. Thank you. ❤️🙌🏼

[@katmorgenstern]

It's exactly how I feel - whenever I draw something, I fall in love with it.

[@margaretpolly3381]

I wrote it in mine, too!

[@incognitoedc]

I am living proof!.Started zentangle in 2021 during lockdown before which I could not draw. I just jumped in and now I'm really good, and branching out into projects that continue to amaze me. You are so right...drawing several hours almost daily has changed my life. And my friends are amazed and ask to see my work. I have a brain injury and I create new neural pathways everyday....pencil sketching, pen and ink, colored pancils, watercolor with fountain pen inks and now botanicals....I just love trying new things and continually learning even at the ripe age of 68 years young....keep up the good work! This video really hit home...

[@dawnrobinette7554]

my 11 year old daughter and I watched this video together. She loves to draw but does not like to take instruction. She was so taken with this video, she asked to take a class with you. She would like to know where you live so she can meet you! Thank you for inspiring both her and myself!

[@caroldrews8778]

Challenge accepted! I'm a retired horticulturist, hiker, and nature lover. I've never been happy with my art journaling. I'm going for it! Every day for a year. SOMETHING in the nature journal. Thank you!!!

[@AnnieCappuccino]

"A year of drawing dangerously" -- this is brilliant. Writing that on the first page of my new journal.

[@SavMuni]

My wife just sent me this. So applicable for everything in life not just journaling. I'm going to have to take this challenge.

[@marigailsexton8161]

You are so smart and kind and talented. Thanks for sharing your brain and your eye with us.....and those girls. Adorable.

[@jennifern9373]

Watching this 2 years later, Mr. Muir appears so genuine and very inspiring. Sometimes I hesitated to draw, thinking it was just for personal gratification and is it a waste of time. But after he spoke about how this helps our mind and brain, amongnother things, I feel encouraged to draw more again. Thanks.

[@robinr5337]

I love that you are still so excited about teaching us this subject. It really helps with motivation. I've been off and on about my sketching and drawing for a few years now. But this pandemic got us to put in a wildlife pond. I have never been so happy. Sitting and watching this has gotten me through this year. Now to take it a step further and sketch this. Thank you for all the the time and energy spent teaching us.

[@mireillefruin9363]

And how can we not love YOU for this most beautiful presentation straight from the heart. What a gift. Thank you ❤

[@GlitterPoolParty]

I love that you called out political diatribes and coffee flavor comments that tend to come with art videos. They absolutely bug me too. When I binge watch art videos, I tend to want to put them on mute and turn on some music. In fact, I think muted art videos overlayed with a relaxing playlist would be a great channel to stream into nursing homes. In his last days, my dad really enjoyed the music and nature streamed into the nursing home. I got my big 660 pg sketch book yesterday to do a sketch a day. This book will sit on my desk and be the elephant in the room and accessible for me while I'm at my desk waiting for something to happen. To keep me motivated, each month will have a page of numbers to serve as a table of contents of the image I draw each day. In addition to my big sketch a day, I've got smaller sketch books to take with me away from my desk. I have a bulk supply of soft sided field note books that are light weight and work great with a clip board. (Clip boards are so under rated! I've got a small clip board in my car to serve as a quick desk on the go) Carrying pencils, I've found mail order socks sometimes come in soft plastic zipper pouches that are perfect for carrying pencils! The pouch is silky smooth. I throw a pouch of pens, pencils, markers, and highlighters in each of my totes so whatever adventure I'm on, I'll have a useful pouch of pencils with me. My go to sketches are floor plans and 3D boxy objects, (like concepts for remodeling my house if remodeling were as cheap as graphite and paper). My first sketch a day drawing was a replica of my messy watercolor paint palette with its loose W&N half pans bouncing out. One thing I find important in my sketchaday is a comment about the sketch. What it is, why, and what I learned. Bonus! I love to color in my sketches to finish them up. I'm fascinated with the bright white highlights I see in your sketch books. Is that pastel? How do I do that? Counting and measuring! Yes, what a concept! Love love love the permission to restart with no shame!

[@maryhazlett]

I enjoyed this a lot. Didn't know I was watching a workshop until you were messing with the camera and saw the people. My dad was a professional artist, primarily nature landscapes and flower closeups. He didn't "nature journal". I doubt he ever heard the term. He would "do a quick sketch" on the fly (had 6 kids) and then draw the scene later. He did this a lot on vacations (always art trips), but often didn't have time to start painting until we got home. These "starts" were what he worked on all winter. As I watched this, I was reminded of his jewelers loop - he attached it to his glasses so he could get close to what he was painting (he had bad eyes). It made me wonder if you encourage people to carry even a flat card-type magnifier in their kit for closer examination of plants and bugs. If you can't tell, I'm good with words. My strong-suit. Trying to start drawing. BTW, I'm fascinated with your "pull-apart" glasses!

[@carolynnelarson8082]

I love this! Your daughters in the background make it even better. So real. The content is great and makes this so doable with my own kids. Thank you!

[@bethscanlon7791]

You are such an enthusiastic and encouraging teacher. Your daughters are lucky to have you as well as all your students.

[@Gilren1]

Thank you for alle the effort you put into "us" - the ones that still struggle to start.

[@gusefulbeauty]

Breaking down information in a digestible form is a true gift from you to others! Thank you for being you and helping me be a better me!

[@bhagya10]

This is THE best video on KZbin. Hands down!!

[@sandraworrall-hart3840]

i loved seeing the people talking about their nature journaling experiences while showing their pages. John is so encouraging.

[@myhandmadejournals]

Thank you for this video! I’ve never drawn but always loved botanical illustration. Now at the age of 49 I’m saying to myself I could do it! And you’re right. It’s a skill. I’ve been practicing for 6 months now and I can see improvements and am very happy for myself. Better late than never 😊

[@BassPotter46]

This was really meaningful Mr. John! Thanks for investing in my journey!

[@lesleydonnelly2622]

I loved this video, it helped me so much. Thank you

[@Erinba]

I have just decided to start nature journaling based on what I find in the fields at the end of my road. I am so lucky to have access to such nature on my doorstep. I was going to wait until the new year to start fresh from January but I just couldn’t wait and have started in Nov. I can’t believe what I notice now that I used to just walk past. A whole new world has opened up and I feel so grateful for that. I thoroughly enjoyed this video - I particularly enjoy the way you explain things.

[@traceyelliott6891]

you are my absolute favourite person on social media at the moment. I love your passion and raw honesty. Thank you for sharing.

[@sherrybyars4490]

You are such a great dad. And I love your enthusiasm for this world. I must admit a super teacher. Thank you

[@AMIR-nm7fo]

I'M 67 1/2 I LEARNED FROM MY DAD TO KEEP A JOURNAL, ALL THE PAGES WITH A DATE. SOME PAGES STOOD BLANK FOR DAYS, THEN I STARTED DRAWING AND WRITING. THIS HELPED ME DURING ALL MY LIFE AT SCHOOL AND PROFESSIONALLY. IN A WAY THE JPURNAL KEPT ALL MY STRESS. ONCE I WROTE AND DREW IT, MY STRESS WENT AWAY TILL THE MOMENT I HAD TO ADDRESS THE ISSUE. I WILL WORK NOW ON MY NATURE JOURNALING. THANK FOR THE VIDEO.

[@nelliedod]

ironic that I decided to finish this video instead of going on my walk. oh well. Escape time well-spent. I enjoyed the video and now have my Christmas List written.

[@deborahmeyers551]

You are sooo inspiring thanks for Sharing this inspiring video

[@hope46sf]

Thanks so much!! I'm almost 78. So inspiring!

[@patriciasmith9039]

Wonderful video. I took my first nature walk today, across the street to the pecan lot that has an old, low barn, where my husband keeps his boat, I found some very interesting things. Firstly, a Wisteria vine covering a tree, I think. I say I think because the vine looked like a big tree, but Wisteria trunks don’t get that big, or do they? Hanging on the vine were 6 seed pods, very velvety feeling. Next, growing close to the door of the barn, was a 12 foot Weeping Cherry tree...I kid you not. This was very exciting, as the 40-year old Weeping Cherry in my front yard is dying and must be removed. Hummm...you know what I’m thinking...The story that has led me to this point in my life is very interesting , and not coincidental...you are the answer to prayer....thank you....BTW, I just turned 80 years young...Be Blessed...P. S....this adventure has all been recorded in my gardening journal, with drawings, until I receive the two unlined journal books I just ordered from Amazon, which will become my Nature Journaling books.

[@johnhyde]

Wisteria vines can get very big! I have some frightening specimens in my back yard, including a vine as thick as the tree it's wrapped around.

[@tenacresofrandom-ness1236]

*mouth drops open*........wow. Okay so I am totally in the world of nature journalling and just looking at your Amazing art makes my MIND BLOW! You are such a awesome artist!!!!

[@masond387]

I’m a sophomore studying wildlife science and management and I’ve been looking for a way to immerse myself in what I study for the longest time. This video has really helped so much, thank you!!!

[@melanieklarofficial]

This Is so amazing! Thank you! This video is so rich with so much! Science, art, parenting, just your model of being a loving, caring human! Thank you for your influence and inspiration! I’m doing this!!

[@emmabeattie3862]

John, you're hilarious. I also love your daughter who's sneaking about behind you pretending she's not REALLY interested in your video recording... ! Thanks for being so entertaining.. (I'm only 12 minutes in!)

[@amandasymon4363]

Out of here and onto paper 👊 Love the idea of my own personal time capsule journal - Wow!

[@dampgoat]

I'm out on my porch sketching the tiniest little flowers on a Japanese Knotweed and it's kicking my butt, but you're motivating me to keep going.

[@Nannekebos]

I enjoyed this video very much! The language shown at 29:50 is not German, it actually is Dutch, spoken in The Netherlands. It is my language :). The Netherlands is a small country just next to Germany in western Europe. We are known for Amsterdam, king Willem-Alexander and queen Máxima, Johan Cruijff, van Gogh, Rembrandt, Johannes Vermeer, Mondriaan, Escher, electronic music, DJ Tiësto, Hardwell, Martin Garrix and so on haha 😃

[@marigailsexton8161]

I love your enthusiasm and authenticity. You are smart, talented, and kind.

[@StacyHarbinger]

you look like you would be a great dad! Good video by the way

[@joannlake-winter8565]

I am excited about starting this i can not draw i really want to water color. Love your instructions.

[@soniabrickell4268]

Such a wonderful tutorial . I have been finding life a little hard for a while like most people . Art is my way of escapism my go to place when I feel like I’m having a bad day....... However I sometimes feel that I have no motivation,I have so much kit and can’t decide on what I want to do so therefore I close my art room door and do other things . But your tutorial today has made me feel positive ,a nature journal sounds a great idea . I love watercolours and ink best of all . It’s true what you say ,practice ,practice and practice it’s easy to say but harder to do .I need to be strict with myself I think take time out regularly and just make art . Thank you for your help and your positivity. 😊

[@Owlo100]

Awesome! Thank you!!

[@husainlehri]

Such an inspiring talk ! Thank you for igniting the spark in me ❤️

[@gazzabart]

Your passion is outstanding thank you so much

[@manona2845]

I needed this!! Therapy to believe I just need to do it (even though I think I suck at drawing, never did it because I just had no confidence) But your video inspired me! I am going to give it a try

[@anjichurch4406]

Yay Raybonto…he is such an inspiration to this 58 year old newbie!!!

[@PamelaYNixon]

Love Nature Drawing. Looking forward to starting my Journey.

[@vince147]

That kid's geese were so genuine.

[@edilalewis654]

Oh my goodness finally someone with understand kind humble in nature

[@Chisumpa]

I lost my mojo and though I enjoy drawing, always figure I’d never amount to much as an artist. This has been so inspiring.....thank you!🙏

[@alexx3495]

was led to this video and am so glad :) thanks for sharing.

[@gatareina]

I bought your book today! I can’t wait for it to arrive!

[@keniasedler5223]

My trees today (I JUST started nature journaling), look just like your tree from 1980! There's hope for me yet...😆

[@julieabarham1462]

Thank you for doing this 💛🌻✨

[@nunziawright5957]

This is so cool. And to see how your drawing is improving. Amazing.

[@shruti5348]

Thankyou so much John. I needed the pep talk, was thinking about how I ll never be able to do it considering the intricate details, the skills needed. Thankyou for explaining how to put in the work. Much appreciated.

[@tinaenglandcolwell9230]

Thank you John for keeping it real! I'm just starting journaling because of your book and website, and great teachers which I'm taking a class right now for!!!

[@IrynaBoehland]

John, thank you so much! You are such an inspiration! About 8 years ago you did a Sketchbook Review video. Would you please make a new short video like this, with current favorites? Thank you

[@cocreattitude]

I absolutely love your enthusiasm, wonderful content and motivational speeches. Thank you

[@eltrym]

Thank you John, your video has helped motivate me. I could see how passionate you are about your subject and it brought tears to my eyes because I know you are right in what you're trying to portrait. Your words of encouragement make me feel like I can do this too, just like you. Have you ever studied psychology? I like Albert Ellis's REBT. It's helped me to observe my thinking and listen to what I'm telling myself in certain instances. In the instance of drawing, I'm definitely telling myself that I can't do it and it's too hard. But, often, at this stage I haven't even made a start! How can I know I can't do something if I don't try? Ellis would say (I think) that 'I can't stand it's' and 'it's too hard's' come from irrational thinking. The demands that we put on ourselves, others and the world. In this instance then the underlying demand that's causing my 'can't' and 'too hard' is the demand I'm putting on myself to do it, I guess. Something like 'I must do it, I must get it right.' Or a demand on life's circumstances, 'it should be easier that it is (to draw that bird etc)' and 'it shouldn't be this hard'. The idea then is to change that demand back into the strong preference it came from by disputing those 'shoulds and musts' because otherwise, what my belief is something along the lines of 'I should have been born a genius and not need try at achieving my goals!' 😂

[@tracygillard7388]

I really enjoyed this video. I'm just starting my nature journaling journey and I found this so informative and interesting to watch. Thank you.

[@heatherh3457]

Great job girls. Thank you for helping your dad.

[@MFSG67]

Cute assistants 😊😊😊

[@tiffannyvarga]

I’m so inspired and I have a drawing buddy in mind :) I hope she says yes! Thanks for the video!

[@janeharrington2386]

Thanks for this, I had been doing more writing than drawing as I struggle to draw birds well enough and get frustrated but I will put in those pencil miles 👍

[@vanessaboman8143]

I thought I can't do that! I would love to but I cant... I love being in nature and my eyes soak in the beauty but I really wanted to record it... Your enthusiasm has stirred that deep desire in me, so I am getting ready to jump in and do this cos I can learn....

[@anakarenguerrero7592]

I am so glad I found this video! ❤️

[@RubDev]

This was inspirational, I stumbled upon your video from 2013 today where you show how to draw botanical detail. I'm getting into botany, taking pictures, making a herbarium etc But drawing nature around me would help to really "see" all the details, remember and study them. Only problem: I can't even hold a pencil :P thanks! subscribed.

[@thuntz29]

Very interesting video! Would love some timelines. I had no idea about non-photo blue pencils, will look into it. My first sketch is always hesitant and takes me so long. This might help the process. I tried just sketching with ink to forget about mistakes, but I end up hating my drawings most of the time.

[@lindacadeau554]

I enjoyed this very much, thank you.

[@karinmorin4781]

I loved this! Great tips! I have a bird sketchbook, can’t wait to start a nature journal. A friend told me about the Facebook group, so just joined this week. Thank you!

[@Sorobai]

This was really fun to watch. I learned a lot. You are such an entusiastic teacher. Must be great to have you as a tutor. I started figure drawing by about the time you made this and will soon start nature journaling too. Would bem great to know the name of the face group. Thank you for sharing this.

[@davidroberts8499]

I have been trying to find other people in my area. For a few months it was working then it just stopped. As a disabled veteran I don’t fit in with a lot of people,so I try to do it on my own.

[@anitasanderszangeres]

oh my so true!

[@GlitterPoolParty]

(if you have a sheet of yellow film, you can make your NPB pencil lines show up on camera for demo purposes)

[@Nicole_Barrett]

Great video! Did you use watercolor to color your 2020 journal?

[@LaineyBug2020]

Sir, what plant is it in the drawing from your thumbnail? I watched the whole video for that and never saw it. I only clicked because these are blooming in my yard right now and I can't figure out what it is!

[@VS-jl1zw]

Thank you!

[@laurak3990]

This is awesome. I felt like you were exactly speaking to me where I am at. Thank you for sharing your insight, knowledge and encouragement.

[@tenacresofrandom-ness1236]

i wish that i could just stare at each page for like..........at least 1 hour just admiring each padges beauty

[@KyleTheShaman]

💚

[@brookea.8727]

Couldn't hear it, sorry

[@mezcalito500]

boring!

[@AnnieCappuccino]

"A year of drawing dangerously" -- this is brilliant. Writing that on the first page of my new journal.