The Verdancy Project offers a variety of art, nature and science based workshops and events.
If you are a teacher interested in offering a workshop at The Verdancy Project please visit our teaching page.
If you would like to find out about our upcoming workshops and events please sign up for our mailing list.
Painting with Nature - Creating with Minerals, Rocks, and Soil
Painting with Nature - Creating with Minerals, Rocks, and Soil
Saturday, June 29th
1:00pm - 3:00pm
$85 + $10 materials fee
All levels of creative experience are welcome.
The Verdancy Project, 30310 SE Division DR, Troutdale, OR
A reminder email with more information will be sent out 1 week before the workshop
Register Here
Delve into the remarkable world of natural materials as we unleash the creative potential of the Earth itself. Join visiting artist Allison McElroy for an immersive workshop where you will explore the beauty and versatility of minerals, rocks, and soil, transforming them into paints that capture the essence of nature.
In this hands-on workshop, you'll discover the secrets of crafting your own paints using traditional techniques and innovative methods. From watercolors to ink, and even a glimpse into the world of oils, we'll delve into the art of pigment creation, allowing you to express yourself with the colors of the Earth.
Throughout the workshop, you'll learn wet and dry painting techniques, gaining insight into how to manipulate these unique mediums to bring your artistic vision to life. Additionally, we'll explore the art of brush-making, crafting unconventional tools that enhance your creative expression and connect you more deeply with the natural world
By the end of our journey together, you'll have not only expanded your artistic repertoire but also developed a deeper appreciation for the boundless inspiration provided by the world around us. Let's awaken the artist within and paint with the palette of nature itself.
Allison McElroy is a dedicated professor of Painting at Jacksonville State University. Her artistic journey began with traditional painting techniques, but she has since embraced the beauty of nature as my medium. Through her hikes, she collects rocks and minerals, transforming them into exquisite oil and watercolor paints. Allison's art seeks to blend the Earth’s essence with creativity, bridging the gap between nature and human expression.
This in-person workshop will be taking place outside under a tent or in a shaded area. The class is located in a rural natural environment with some uneven terrain. Please let us know if you have any accessibility requests or needs and we will do our best to accommodate them. Unfortunately, we are not ADA mobility accessible at this time.
Cancelation policy:
Cancellations made 14 days or more in advance of the event date, will receive a 100% refund. Cancellations made within 7 days will receive a 50% refund. Cancellations made within 6 days of the event will not receive any refunds. Due to the nature of our workshops being taught by different instructors with different price points etc. credits for missed classes cannot be given. Workshops are transferable if you cannot make it.
Intuitive Creativity
Intuitive Creativity
Saturday, July 27th
10am - 2:00pm
$85 includes all supplies and materials
Ages 10 and up, & all levels of creative experience are welcome.
The Verdancy Project, 30310 SE Division DR, Troutdale, OR
A reminder email with more information will be sent out 1 week before the workshop
Register Here
Join us for a transformative workshop where we explore and play with the power of intuitive creativity. Let go of all preconceived notions and expectations about art-making, and allow your intuition to guide you on a profound journey of self-discovery.
In this workshop, we relinquish the pressure of creating a finished product and instead, focus on the process. Through guided exercises, we tap into our deep knowing, letting our hearts and bodies lead the way. We'll explore the vibrant world of color, experiment with mark-making, and rediscover familiar materials in refreshing ways.
Throughout the workshop, you'll learn three transformative exercises that you can revisit time and again for self-exploration, artistic inspiration, and clarity of purpose. By continuing to practice these techniques, you'll unlock the remarkable tool of intuitive creativity, enabling you to attune closely to your body and tap into the inherent wisdom that resides within us all.
No prior art experience is necessary—only a willingness to sit with yourself, release expectations, and embrace the unknown. Expect to be intrigued by more questions than answers as you delve into the playful exploration of your inner creativity.
Beth Wilson is a Pacific Northwest native and has been making intuitive art for nearly 30 years. She pulls materials from everyday life, relying on them to guide her and give their experience to her artwork. Sometimes her work is small and made alone; gestures of gratitude. Sometimes it is big and made in community; gestures of transformation. What it all has in common is the power to create a sense of connection; to self, to community, and to the planet that sustains us. Our culture has stripped us of this sense of connection, of our humanness. With each art class offered, and each art piece made, Beth is tending to our loss, cultivating connections, and strengthening routes and bridges back to our humanity
This in-person workshop will be taking place outside under a tent or in a shaded area. The class is located in a rural natural environment with some uneven terrain. Please let us know if you have any accessibility requests or needs and we will do our best to accommodate them. Unfortunately we are not mobility accessible at this time.
Cancelation policy:
Cancellations made 14 days or more in advance of the event date, will receive a 100% refund. Cancellations made within 7 days will receive a 50% refund. Cancellations made within 6 days of the event will not receive any refunds. Due to the nature of our workshops being taught by different instructors with different price points etc. credits for missed classes cannot be given. Workshops are transferable if you cannot make it.
Capturing Nature's Beauty: Cyanoprinting Workshop
Cyanoprinting: Capturing Nature's Beauty
Sunday, July 28th
11am - 2:30pm (Includes 30 min lunch break)
$65 + $10 materials fee
Ages 16 and up, & all levels of creative experience are welcome.
The Verdancy Project, 30310 SE Division DR, Troutdale, OR
A reminder email with more information will be sent out 1 week before the workshop
Register Here
Unlock the mesmerizing world of cyanotype printing in this immersive workshop. Cyanotype is a non-toxic photographic process that involves using chemistry and water to create a light-sensitive emulsion that reacts to a UV light source to create captivating blue-hued prints. Participants will delve into the art of cyanotype printing, harnessing the power of sunlight and natural objects to craft unique, one-of-a-kind treasures.
Throughout the session, students will:
Learn the fundamentals of cyanotype printing, from creating the light-sensitive emulsion to preparing the printing surface.
Explore various exposure lengths and techniques for capturing intricate shadows and details.
Create a collection of cyanoprints, each reflecting the beauty and uniqueness of the natural world.
Take home their exquisite prints, ready to be transformed into journals, bookmarks, or displayed as stunning artworks in their homes.
Join us for an unforgettable journey of creativity, exploration, and artistic expression as we bring together chemistry and nature in the enchanting realm of cyanotype printing.
Lindsay Strout is a Maine high school science educator who is very passionate about the outdoors and all it has to offer! She studied at the University of Prince Edward Island majoring in Biology and minoring in Environmental Studies. She taught English in South Korea for a few years, then traveled for an additional year to 9 other countries, living out of a backpack, exploring the various cultures, food & languages. Upon returning to Maine, she was introduced to nature journaling. Last year, Lindsay finished her year-long course to become a Maine Master Naturalist as well! Lindsay can’t wait to share her passion for the outdoors by nature journaling & cyanoprinting with you this summer!
This in-person workshop will be taking place outside under a tent or in a shaded area. The class is located in a rural natural environment with some uneven terrain. Please let us know if you have any accessibility requests or needs and we will do our best to accommodate them. Unfortunately, we are not mobility accessible at this time.
Cancelation policy:
Cancellations made 14 days or more in advance of the event date, will receive a 100% refund. Cancellations made within 7 days will receive a 50% refund. Cancellations made within 6 days of the event will not receive any refunds. Due to the nature of our workshops being taught by different instructors with different price points etc. credits for missed classes cannot be given. Workshops are transferable if you cannot make it.
Nature Journaling
Nature Journaling
Saturday, August 3rd
10am - 1:30pm (Includes 30 min lunch break)
$45 + $10 materials fee
Ages 10 and up, & all levels of creative experience are welcome.
The Verdancy Project, 30310 SE Division DR, Troutdale, OR
A reminder email with more information will be sent out 1 week before the workshop
Register Here
Join us for an immersive journey into the world of nature journaling with visiting artist Lindsay Strout. In this introductory workshop, participants will embark on a voyage of discovery, honing their observational abilities while connecting deeply with the natural environment. Through a series of engaging activities, we will delve into the art of keen perception, exploring the wonders of nature with all our senses.
No prior artistic experience is necessary; this workshop is designed for enthusiasts of all skill levels. Rather than focusing on artistic perfection, our emphasis lies in the act of mindful observation and documentation. Through a blend of words and sketches, participants will learn to capture the essence of their surroundings, enriching their nature journals with vivid descriptions and detailed observations.
Key highlights of the workshop include:
Cultivating heightened awareness and sensory perception in nature
Mastering the fundamentals of nature journaling
Techniques for translating observations into expressive journal entries
Immersive journaling sessions amidst the serene landscapes of the Verdancy Project's land
By the end of the workshop, participants will have filled their journals with a variety of experiences, each page brimming with the vibrant tapestry of the natural world. Whether you're a seasoned naturalist or a curious beginner, this workshop promises to deepen your connection with nature and unlock the transformative power of mindful observation. Join us as we embark on a journey of discovery, one journal entry at a time.
Lindsay Strout is a Maine high school science educator who is very passionate about the outdoors and all it has to offer! She studied at the University of Prince Edward Island majoring in Biology and minoring in Environmental Studies. She taught English in South Korea for a few years, then traveled for an additional year to 9 other countries, living out of a backpack, exploring the various cultures, food & languages. Upon returning to Maine, she was introduced to nature journaling. Last year, Lindsay finished her year-long course to become a Maine Master Naturalist as well! Lindsay can’t wait to share her passion for the outdoors by nature journaling & cyanoprinting with you this summer!
This in-person workshop will be taking place outside under a tent or in a shaded area. The class is located in a rural natural environment with some uneven terrain. Please let us know if you have any accessibility requests or needs and we will do our best to accommodate them. Unfortunately, we are not mobility accessible at this time.
Cancelation policy:
Cancellations made 14 days or more in advance of the event date, will receive a 100% refund. Cancellations made within 7 days will receive a 50% refund. Cancellations made within 6 days of the event will not receive any refunds. Due to the nature of our workshops being taught by different instructors with different price points etc. credits for missed classes cannot be given. Workshops are transferable if you cannot make it.
What If Book: A Journey of Personal Affirmation and Creativity
What If Book: A Journey of Personal Affirmation and Creativity
Saturday, May 11th
10am - 2:00pm
$85 includes all supplies and materials
Ages 10 and up (with adult), & all levels of creative experience are welcome.
The Verdancy Project, 30310 SE Division DR, Troutdale, OR
A reminder email with more information will be sent out 1 week before the workshop
Register Here
Embark on a transformative journey with our What If book project, a profoundly simple yet impactful endeavor tailored to your unique path and designed to accompany you through life's highs and lows. In this workshop, we'll delve into the art of crafting handmade affirmation books, each one a tangible reflection of your individual journey, intended to be a source of solace during moments of stress and uncertainty.
We'll commence by grounding ourselves in the present moment, fostering a sense of calm and receptivity. From there, you'll be guided through the process of creating your very own miniature book, a skill you'll carry with you long after the workshop ends. Beth will lead you through a series of creativity exercises, igniting your imagination and helping you pinpoint the focus of your affirmation book.
Whether you're drawn to affirmations or prefer exploring the power of "what if" questions, this workshop offers something for everyone. Through a delightful exploration of collage materials, you'll uncover layers of meaning and joy, regardless of whether you consider yourself a seasoned artist or a novice. Every step of the way, you'll receive support and encouragement, ensuring that your tiny book is filled with images, text, and drawings that resonate deeply with your soul.
Throughout the workshop, you'll acquire valuable skills, including bookbinding techniques, grounding exercises, creativity prompts, and collage tips. By the workshop's end, you'll depart with at least one beautifully crafted affirmation book, brimming with inspiration and personal affirmations, ready to serve as a cherished tool for self-soothing and empowerment.
Join us on this enriching journey of self-expression and discovery, and let your What If book become a beacon of light on your path to personal growth and resilience.
Beth Wilson is a Pacific Northwest native and has been making intuitive art for nearly 30 years. She pulls materials from everyday life, relying on them to guide her and give their experience to her artwork. Sometimes her work is small and made alone; gestures of gratitude. Sometimes it is big and made in community; gestures of transformation. What it all has in common is the power to create a sense of connection; to self, to community, and to the planet that sustains us. Our culture has stripped us of this sense of connection, of our humanness. With each art class offered, and each art piece made, Beth is tending to our loss, cultivating connections, and strengthening routes and bridges back to our humanity
Cancelation policy:
Cancellations made 14 days or more in advance of the event date, will receive a 100% refund. Cancellations made within 7 days will receive a 50% refund. Cancellations made within 6 days of the event will not receive any refunds. Due to the nature of our workshops being taught by different instructors with different price points etc. credits for missed classes cannot be given. Workshops are transferable if you cannot make it.
Terra Incognita
Land art exhibition featuring over 25 artists and performers
August 19th, 20th, 26th and 27th - 10am - 4pm
Terra Incognita is an interdisciplinary, site-specific land art exhibition featuring over twenty five artists and performers exploring mindful interaction and collaboration with the site: a 4.5-acre microcosm of natural elements featuring woodlands, fields, pond, dye garden, and a creek.
With the starting point of terra incognita or “unknown territory” – referring to both land or mental exploration – the artists were invited to conceive new works inspired by and/or integrated into this landscape. Keeping in mind their role as stewards of the land, the artists use natural and sustainable materials to creatively chart new territory, enchanting and surprising viewers. The resulting artworks will be immersive and intimate activations of the land, water, and trees, through built earthworks, installations, sculptures, sound installations, performance art, and more. Visitors are invited to come and be inspired, challenged, and delighted.
Terra Incognita is produced by The Verdancy Project (TVP) in collaboration with curators Shannon Amidon, Lauren Carrera, Merridawn Duckler, Kendra Roberts, and Joellen Sweeney. The exhibit is hosted on the property of TVP, a multidisciplinary community-oriented art experiment with a mission of fostering curiosity and inspiring environmental stewardship.
Visit the Terra Incognita page for more info.
TVP Residency Info Session - Online
Learn more about The Verdancy Project and our artist residency program. We will be holding an online info session on October 8th at 11:00am. Join us to ask questions about the program, property, and more. Resident Alumni will be present to talk about their experiences.
The Ecology of Proximity: How it Feels to Make Place-Based Art, an artist talk and creative meetup
The Verdancy Project presents The Ecology of Proximity: How it Feels to Make Place-Based Art, an artist talk and creative meetup. Join artist in residence Anita Spaeth as they discuss the personal significance of place-based creative experimentation, as well as work created during their time in residence.
This event will also be an opportunity for like-minded creatives to meet, connect and explore the grounds of The Verdancy Project.
Anita Spaeth is an interdisciplinary artist and arts-integrated environmental educator based in Oregon. They use poetry, print, and book arts to discuss the everyday, ecology, contemporary land-use politics, environmental degradation, and metaphysical uncertainty of living in the Anthropocene.
Date: Thursday, August 18th
Time: 5:30 pm - 6:00 - Meet and Mingle
6:00 pm - Anita Spaeth artist talk
Admission: Free
Refreshments will be provided. We encourage carpooling as parking is limited. Please note that The Verdancy Project is a natural rural environment and the terrain is uneven. Unfortunately due to this, the grounds are not mobility accessible. This event will be held outdoors, we suggest sunscreen and bug spray.
For questions or inquiries, please contact info@verdancyproject.com.
Photographic Lumen Printing
Stroll the grounds of The Verdancy Project collecting botanical specimens to create your own beautiful and ghostly color prints. Each person attending this workshop will create a bundle of their own beautiful lumen prints – a cameraless photographic process – and be equipped with the skills and knowledge to continue creating lumen prints.
Art and Entomology
Are you a creative interested in the captivating world of insects? Join The Verdancy Project as we explore the wonderful world of insects with The Bug Chicks.
Arthropods (insects, spiders, and their relatives) are endlessly fascinating and can be a huge source of inspiration for artists.
Adirondack Pack Basket Workshop
Learn to weave your very own sturdy, practical and beautiful Adirondack pack basket in this 2-day workshop. These baskets are woven by hand using techniques that have been passed down through generations. Wilderness guides, hunters, and trappers used the Adirondack Pack Basket to carry just about everything they took with them into the woods. They are also great for farmer’s markets, hiking and foraging.
It’s Not Easy Being Green: A Color Workshop
In this hands-on workshop, we will spend time surrounded by and investigating the color GREEN. Participants will be introduced to the origins and symbolic uses of green throughout the history of art. From Ancient China to St.Patrick’s Day Parades, various shades of GREEN have been influencing our color memories whether we are conscious of them or not.
Write, Draw, Cut, & Paste
Spend the day immersed in the beautiful property of the Verdancy Project with artist Barb Burwell and a sketchbook, learning how to capture botanical inspirations through observations, journaling, mixed media drawings, and collage.
Paper Botanicals Workshop
Learn to sculpt paper into beautiful botanicals that look like they came right out of the garden.
Join paper artist Inga Peterson for an in-person six-hour paper botanical workshop on the beautiful grounds of The Verdancy Project. Learn to make lifelike paper hellebore and fern frond sculptures using German crepe paper, watercolor paint, wire, and glue. This class will cover all the basic paper sculpting, coloring, and finishing techniques needed to build your own amazing botanicals.
Open House and Tour
You’re invited to our first in-person Open House! Now that we’re fully vaccinated and ready to get back to a new normal, we wanted to open our doors and give you the opportunity to visit our sanctuary, explore our beautiful grounds, and learn more about The Verdancy Project (TVP)
Learn More
Art and Entomology
Are you a creative interested in the captivating world of insects? Join The Verdancy Project as we explore the wonderful world of insects with The Bug Chicks.
Arthropods (insects, spiders and their relatives) are endlessly fascinating and can be a huge source of inspiration for artists.