Field Sketches and Feathers: A Bird Walk and Drawing Workshop with Craig and Xenia

About the event

Slow down, look closely and discover the hidden life of Darebin Creek through drawing. 

Join Craig and Xenia for a free, relaxed and creative workshop exploring the plants, habitats and small birds of the Darebin Creek Valley. Through drawing and observation, you’ll be encouraged to notice the details of the natural world around you. From the shapes and textures of local plants to the tiny birds moving through the vegetation. 

You don’t need to be an artist. This workshop is about looking, noticing and connecting, rather than creating a perfect drawing. Craig and Xenia will guide you through simple, accessible drawing activities that encourage curiosity and help you see the landscape in a new way. 

As we explore the Creekside environment, we’ll also learn about the important relationship between native plants and the small birds that depend on them for food, shelter and nesting habitat. By spending time observing these connections, we can begin to understand the creek as a living ecosystem and our place within it. 

All materials are provided, and no drawing experience is needed. Clear, simple instructions and a supportive approach make this workshop accessible to people of all experience levels, including those with limited English. 

Come along, take a breath, pick up a pencil and spend some time getting to know the plants, birds and living landscape of Darebin Creek. 

This event is funded by the Australian Government and Victorian Government, with the support of DCMC and City of Whittlesea.

About the presenters

Xenia Putilin-Stamkoska (she/her) is a nature conservationist and community facilitator. With over a decade of experience, Xenia works at the overlap of ecological stewardship, community engagement and hands-on arts and crafts. Since arriving in Australia in late 2024, she has been exploring local nature and creative spaces. She brings old-school birder vibes and a passion for helping people deeply connect with the local environment through creative exploration.  

Craig Burgess (he/him) is an artist and facilitator. Craig started hosting 'Draw Plants Together' drawing workshops in 2023 at the meeting place of creative process, nature-connectedness and wellbeing. For this workshop, Craig brings curiosity around the way drawing can help us notice birds and their habitat along the Darebin Creek. For more info: drawplantstogether.com