BY KINLEY BESHERS
FOR THE OPELIKA OBSERVER
The Kreher Preserve and Nature Center (KPNC) is hosting canvas painting classes, titled Nature Art Series, every month this summer with Auburn University graduate and artist, Heather Jackson.
The paintings and art descriptions change every month, each having unique artwork and instruction.
The class this month will be on July 10 from 9 to 11 a.m. Jackson is calling it Hummingbird Zentangle Art.
She said the class will be using Zentangle designs, patterns and watercolors to discover and draw the unique features of a hummingbird.
A sample of the artwork is featured on the KPNC website at aub.ie/natureart.
On there, a schedule of the 2021 classes can be found with the corresponding themes, descriptions and details.
“I do include a description of the class and materials that will be used as well as a sample picture of the project,” Jackson said.
Each class and project uses different styles and techniques — some classes will be based around watercolor paint and others will use acrylic.
All materials needed will be included at the event, unless participants want to bring their own utensils and supplies.
With the upcoming few events taking place during the summer season, Jackson recommends bringing drinks and/or water bottles to stay hydrated in the heat.
KPNC is located at 2222 N. College St. in Auburn and can be contacted by phone at 334-844-8091 for any questions or further information.
Registration for the classes are open on the KPNC website, and the cost of classes differ according to the workshop, but generally range between $25 and $30.
About Heather Jackson
Jackson attended Auburn City Schools and graduated from Auburn University in 1988 with a Bachelor’s of Fine Arts in visual communications and a concentration in graphic design.
Jackson has been working for Auburn University as a graphic designer for 23 years and is also currently in the Office of Communications and Marketing.
“I’ve always been interested in art and believe everyone is born an artist,” Jackson said.
Jackson is inspired by Zentangle art methods and became a certified Zentangle® teacher (CZT) in 2015.
She has taught at the Jan Dempsey Community Art Center and is also enrolled in the Color of Woman Intentional Creativity® Teacher program.
She plans to become certified this summer and add five new paintings to her portfolio.
Jackson has been an artist for as long as she can remember. She said she is inspired by visionary artist, Shiloh Sophia. Her approach to art motivated Jackson to establish an intention before she creates a painting.
“Creativity is a wonderful and powerful way to express one’s self, especially creating art with intention and mindfulness,” Jackson said.
Jackson said she has been wanting to find a way to bring the community together to celebrate and practice art and appreciation for nature, education and conservation, and she is excited to be teaching this series monthly.
“I believe everyone is a creative being and art is for all. I also maintain there is no right or wrong way to create art, just your way,” Jackson said.