Nature Journaling: Sketching Pinecones with Maryanne Pittman — Nov. 27, 2026
Description
Join us for nature journaling in the garden, where we'll focus on seed cones.
As the air cools and we embrace the cooler seasons, it's the perfect time to draw inspiration from one of the season's iconic treasures—pinecones. Whether you're an experienced artist or a complete beginner, this focused nature journaling class at the Theodore Payne Foundation offers a peaceful opportunity to connect with nature and hone your drawing skills.
We’ll begin with a brief introduction to the diversity of cones from California's native conifers, cypresses, and firs, exploring their shapes, textures, and unique structures. You'll learn how these fascinating seed vessels function and what they reveal about the trees they come from, from the large, woody scales of a Coulter pine to the smaller, delicate cones of a giant sequoia.
Afterward, we’ll explore sketching techniques through guided exercises that break down the intricate details of pinecones into approachable steps to capture their patterns and layers.
Students can choose to stay in the classroom or take their sketchbooks through our demonstration gardens for additional inspiration. By the end of the session, you'll have a deeper understanding of seed cones and the confidence to translate their natural beauty onto the page.
We encourage participants to bring their own journal or sketchbook and personal drawing materials; loose-paper and pencils will be provided.
Maryanne Pittman is the Director of Public Programs at the Theodore Payne Foundation, a Certified California Naturalist, and an experienced art and design professional. She holds degrees in Fine Art and Biology, and specializes in conservation education.
📅 Refund Policy: Refunds are available up to seven days before the event. Within seven days, refunds and credits are no longer available, as this helps us plan responsibly and support our instructors. Thank you for your understanding.
FAQs
- What is your refund policy?
Refund Policy
Refunds are available up to seven days before the event.
Within seven days, refunds and credits are no longer available, as this helps us plan responsibly and support our instructors.Thank you for your understanding.
If the event is more than seven days away:
Open the order confirmation email you received after buying your ticket.
Click manage order.
Go to the refund/cancel tab.
Select the tickets you want to refund.
Click review > confirm to submit the refund.
You’ll receive a confirmation email. Refunds usually return to the original payment method in 2–5 business days.
🎟️ Enrollment Threshold for Classes: We require a minimum of five participants for a class to run; when enrollment falls below that number, we may need to cancel the class in order to responsibly cover program costs and maintain an engaging experience for those attending. If this happens we will refund the ticket price. We are not able to refund credit card charges.
- I'm a member. How do I find my code?
Your discount code is in the email you received when you purchased your membership.
If you cannot find the email, please contact programs@theodorepayne.org and allow 2-3 business days for a response. We receive a very high volume of email.
- I am not sure if I am a member. How do I check?
Not sure of your member status? Log in and check your status here: https://account.theodorepayne.org/profile
Not a member? Join today!
- What if it rains?
Rain or Shine Policy
Our classes generally take place rain or shine. We do not cancel classes simply because rain is forecast; however, the safety of our students, instructors, and staff comes first. In the event of severe weather or unsafe conditions, we will evaluate the situation on a case-by-case basis and may modify, relocate, postpone, or cancel a class. If TPF cancels or postpones a class due to weather, registered participants will be notified as soon as possible and offered a refund or the option to transfer their registration to a rescheduled date when available.
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