Explore desert insects and geology, and pick up tips about acrylic painting through classes offered by the Desert Institute, the educational arm of Joshua Tree National Park. Ernest Figueroa has more information about the classes…
The Desert Institute will offer a weekend class October 9-11 on insects and arthropods of the Morongo Basin that includes lectures, field hikes—including one at night with special lights—a movie, and a short hike in the Low Desert. Or choose to explore the Amboy Crater and surrounding lava fields on Saturday, October 10. If painting is more your style, local artist Janis Commentz is holding an acrylic painting workshop at the Black Rock Canyon visitor’s center on October 10. Course fees range from $85 to $145. Visit the link below to register.
Register online at joshuatree.org, or call 760-367-5539.
October 9-11 Insects and Arthropods of the Morongo Basin with Kurt Leuschner
Did you know that insects can survive in temperatures over 110 degrees Fahrenheit in the shade with little or no water? Kurt Leuschner will explore the lives of the largest group of animals in the world through a study of insect anatomy, survival traits, habitats, and behaviors. Participants will learn to identify and distinguish insects from other arthropods and then practice their skills in the field. Field observations will include desert, dune, and riparian habitats, as well as a special night session with black lights at the Big Morongo Canyon Preserve. Leuschner will share amazing stories of insects like the yucca moth, the ant lion, and the world they inhabit. This class is sponsored by the Big Morongo Canyon Preserve.
October 10 Geology of Amboy Crater with Alessandro Grippo
Volcanoes of Southern California? We are famous for faults, and earthquakes, and maybe for other geologic phenomena, but not volcanoes. Still, when we look to our landscape we find evidence of volcanic activity, some of it quite recent. In this class we will learn basic concepts of geology and explore Amboy Volcano and the surrounding lava fields to understand why they formed, and if they could become active again! Designated a National Natural Landmark in 1973, Amboy Crater was recognized for its visual and geological significance. There are a number of dormant volcanoes in the Mojave desert, and Amboy crater is a perfect example of a cinder volcanic cone very similar to the volcanoes throughout the region. Join Professor Alessandro Grippo on this all-day field trip.
October 10 Capturing Joshua Tree Landscapes with Acrylics with Janis Commentz
Few destinations offer a landscape as unique as Joshua Tree National Park. Spend a day painting in beautiful Joshua Tree NP. In this one-day class, you will focus on observations, setting an intention for the day, and learning the process of acrylic landscape painting. Janis Commentz is known for her color-intense palette and loose brush strokes. The morning will begin with basic instruction on the process and introduction to materials. Topics will include laying out your palette, color mixing, how to observe the landscape and translate it into an image, tips to see patterns of lights and darks, and planning a successful composition. Participants will move outdoors to observe, sketch, and learn what to look for in a potential landscape. The afternoon will include a demonstration on starting your painting, blocking out your sketch on canvas and time needed to develop your painting. This class is for beginning to intermediate painters.
To register, please go to joshuatree.org or call 760-367-5539.
