Rediscovering Creativity: My Journey Into Art Classes This Fall

This fall, alongside running workshops and spending time outdoors with students, I decided to carve out some space for my own creativity—and it has been one of the most joyful decisions I’ve made in a long time.

I’ve been taking art classes at Ricky Schaede Art Studio in Orangeville, and what started as a small personal goal has quickly turned into a passion. I began with a graphite drawing class focused on animals, where I had an absolute blast drawing a loon, a lynx, and even a blue-footed boobie! The classes were so much fun, and Ricky is such a supportive, kind, and incredibly knowledgeable teacher and artist. His teaching style makes you feel both encouraged and challenged in the best way.

I loved the experience so much that I immediately enrolled i

n a second class—this time exploring the world of pencil crayon drawing. I’m currently working on a chameleon, and diving into colour has opened up a whole new layer of creativity for me. It’s pushing me to experiment, notice differently, and stretch beyond my comfort zone.

These classes have become a beautiful balance to my outdoor and teaching work. They’re another way of noticing, wondering, and connecting—just as I encourage students to do in their journals. And they’re reminding me that learning something new as an adult is incredibly rewarding.

I can’t wait to see where this artistic journey leads next, and I’m excited to bring the inspiration and techniques back into my Nature Journaling practice and the workshops I offer.

Here’s to staying curious, trying new things, and letting creativity surprise us