People live indoors, but your garden is a dynamic, living habitat for other fauna. Science tells us that a diversity of plant materials promotes a diversity of landscape insects and a healthier, more sustainable ecosystem. Janine Lester, landscape designer and consulting arborist, will show you how your ornamental landscape can be a beautiful and edible […]

It can seem watercolor painting needs only water + watercolor paint. Mix them together, apply to paper with a brush and voila! It’s not quite that simple. It is essential for watercolor artists to observe and recreate the highlights, mid-tones, and shadows of specimens in a variety of hues and values. The ability to manipulate […]

Birds are a vital part of our ecosystem. They help pollinate plants, disperse seeds, regulate insect and rodent populations, and provide a food source for other animals. By planting bird-friendly plants, you can attract more birds to your garden and support local bird populations! Join Barb and Buz Sawyer, both birdwatchers since childhood, as they […]

Whether for quick sketches or fine-finishing artwork, toned papers provide numerous advantages. They are quite handy in greatly reducing the difficult work of applying midtones--the most time-consuming in most media. In addition, white pigment for highlights and other light values appears more realistic and, when desired, can really pop! Toned papers can also be great […]

Ikebana, the art of Japanese flower arrangement, was introduced by the Buddhist monks in the mid 6th century through their floral offerings in the temples. They began teaching the art in the 14th century to nobility, shoguns, samurai and merchants. The principles focus on lines; which represent heaven, man, and earth; space and form. As […]

In the fall, our pollinator friends are busy at work! Join entomologist and former Butterflies LIVE! Coordinator, Clara Aus, as she navigates how to best support the local Virginia wildlife with your fall plantings. You’ll learn pollinator flower preferences, fall-blooming keystone species, host plants, fall planting techniques, and how to create a fall garden that […]