Mentoring & Coaching Programs

 
 

Willow Ptarmigan sketches in Alaska ©Sandy McDermott

Nature Junky Artists
A year of mentorship and coaching (Meets monthly online)
Mondays 6-8pmEDT
Tuesdays 6-8pmEDT

What if you could make Field Sketching or Nature Journaling a consistent part of your life—without letting everyday obstacles get in the way?

I can help by removing one of those obstacles and get you connecting with the landscape around you in a meaningful way.

In this non lesson-based program, you and your peers receive a seasonally focused prompt each month to work with; on your own, in your own time.

We come back together one month later to share the field work and discoveries, receive and offer feedback, and get a new prompt!

Learn more

 

“One of Sandy’s endearing qualities is her open acknowledgement (even as an accomplished artist) that art is a process, that it takes work, and that each individual has his or her own objective, approach and pace. She presents these lessons with obvious affection for the topic(s) while always maintaining an openness and sensitivity to her students’ expectations and abilities. Students invariably feel comfortable asking questions, sharing ideas, and seeking guidance.”
~Marty

 
 
 

A big thing I appreciate is how Sandy’s teaching style with lots of gentle encouragement has helped me relax, be willing to try new-to-me techniques and become more confident in my drawing skills. The fact that I used watercolors with me ON our walk this morning (versus at home or outside without Asha) is a testimonial to your teaching and my growth. Thank you so very much.
~ Marilyn

 

Journal pages from a 6-day backpacking trip through Shenandoah Nat’l Park ©Sandy McDermott

Field Sketching; A Year of Mindfulness, Year 1
A year of mentorship and coaching (Online)
Thursdays 2-4pmAKT beginning November 6, 2025

Field sketching offers an opportunity to connect with the natural environment in which you live. Through first-hand observations and the drawing process, you become familiar with the other living creatures that share their space with you; who rely on it, same way you do.Mindfulness comes in when tapping into a sense of curiosity and wonder as you witness the marvels of the natural world. You become present in the moment, which has positive impacts on mind and body.

This program is currently on hold. If you are interested and want to know if/when it will return, leave your name here.


 

Moose sketches in Alaska ©Sandy McDermott

Field Sketching; A Year of Mindfulness, Year 2
A year of mentorship and coaching (Online)
Wednesdays 2-4pmAKT beginning November 5, 2025Building on the Year 1 program, this mentorship is for you if:

  • You have some experience with, and a basic understanding of, field sketching and are ready to deepen your practice

  • You want to continue developing a sustainable practice of Field Sketching or Nature Journaling that fits your interests, schedule, and skill

  • You want to learn more about specific art skills useful in field sketching while being exposed to a few new mediums to use in the field.

Join me for a year to improve and expand your Field Sketching skills and practice!

This program is currently on hold. If you are interested and want to know if/when it will return, leave your name here.

 

Any new programs/workshops will land on this page. Contact me directly with any questions.