
Observational Drawing and Aesthetic Philosophies of Landscape: A Community Drawing Class
July 26 @ 9:00 am – 11:00 am
In this 90-minute class, we’ll delve into the art of observation with artist Katharine Marais, learning to see beyond the surface and capture the essence of the natural world on paper. Through guided exercises and gentle encouragement, participants will not only hone their drawing abilities but also cultivate a deeper appreciation for the natural beauty and sculptural surroundings of the Garden.
Class recommended for ages 12 and up. Children under 18 must be accompanied by guardian.






Artist Bio: Katharine Marais is a multidisciplinary artist from Wolfforth, Texas. Katharine has shown drawings and paintings in the US and internationally, performed as a dancer for Peter Halley’s show at the Lever House art collection and for the Leonard Cohen show at the Jewish Museum in New York, and serves as the editor of a digital arts publication called th_Eroses.
Katharine believes that observational drawing is foundational to both scientific knowledge and creative expression, and that drawing creates time and space to accept the beauty of the world into your mind and to honor the possibilities of being. She is excited to share the drawing experience with the community at Zilker.
Materials List (graciously donated by Jerry’s Artarama)
- Pencils (2B)
- Hand-held pencil sharpeners
- Erasers
- Micron pens (005, 01, 02, 03, 05)
- Colored pencils, in a variety of earth tones
- Drawing paper (14×17 or 18×24)
- Soft pastels

Know Before You Go
- Meet in the Auditorium, located in the main building adjacent to the Gift Shop
- You are welcome to arrive as early as 9:00 AM to check in and get settled – class will start right at 9:30 AM
- This class will take place both indoors and outdoors
- Important Note: Some areas of the Taniguchi Japanese Garden are not ADA accessible. If you have mobility concerns, please reach out to us at info@zbgconservancy.org.
Zilker Botanical Garden Conservancy Members
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