If you’ve ever picked up a maple leaf in awe of its brilliant autumn color, this workshop is for you. Join us for an exploration of classical botanical illustration in a fun and welcoming group setting. Working from real leaves, you’ll learn how to observe nature’s details and translate them into beautiful works of art using drawing and watercolor techniques.

Through guided instruction, you’ll discover ways to give your illustrations character and style while learning how to mix and apply colors that capture the richness and vibrancy of the fall season. Whether you’re a beginner or have some artistic experience, this workshop offers an encouraging environment to develop your skills, connect with fellow learners, and deepen your appreciation for the natural world.

What to Expect

• Learn foundational botanical illustration and observational drawing techniques.
• Work directly from real autumn leaves to study form, color, and detail.
• Explore watercolor methods and color-mixing techniques to achieve the rich hues of the season.
• Watch live demonstrations and follow along with step-by-step instruction.
• Enjoy plenty of time to experiment, practice, and develop your own artistic style.
• Receive guidance and encouragement in a relaxed, supportive group setting.
• Build confidence in your drawing and watercolor abilities and learn skills that can be applied to future nature-inspired artwork.

By the end of the workshop, you’ll have newfound confidence to take your illustration and watercolor skills to the next level, along with artwork and techniques that will leave you feeling inspired, encouraged, and ready to continue creating long after autumn has passed. 🍁🎨

Ages 18+ welcome!

www.miravenhill.org

https://dani-knoph.myshopify.com/

Forest bathing is a gentle, guided experience that invites participants to slow down, unplug, and relax in nature. Rather than focusing on distance, speed, or observation, forest bathing emphasizes being present—using all the senses to connect with the natural world.

Unlike hiking, birding, or other outdoor recreation, there is no goal to accomplish and nothing to “do.” This experience offers space to rest, wander, and rediscover a sense of calm and awareness in a supportive, natural setting.

Your guide will be Maureen Stine, Certified Forest Therapy Guide (ANFT — Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guides and Programs)

Please note: this program is designed for adults ages 18 and older.

What to Expect:

• A slow, easy meander outdoors, accessible to a wide range of abilities
• Invitation‑based guidance that encourages curiosity, relaxation, and sensory awareness
• Opportunities to engage all five senses—sight, sound, touch, smell, and awareness of movement
• A blend of gentle wandering, moments of rest, and quiet reflection
• Facilitated small group gatherings, balanced with solo time for personal experience
• A welcoming, non‑judgmental environment with no pressure to perform, participate, or share

Forest bathing is simply a chance to be in nature—awakening the senses, easing the mind, and allowing the forest to do what it does best.

www.miravenhill.org

Throughout history, birds of prey have captured the human imagination, inspiring myths, traditions, art, and survival practices across the globe. Talons Through Time is a fascinating walking tour that explores humanity’s enduring connection with raptors—from the sacred falcons of Ancient Egypt and the soaring eagles of Native American traditions to the skilled falconry of Samurai Japan and the powerful symbolism of birds of prey in ancient Mesoamerican cultures.

Experience the world through the eyes of hawks, falcons, owls, and eagles as you journey through civilizations and cultures that revered these remarkable hunters. Along the way, discover how raptors influenced mythology, exploration, communication, hunting practices, and spiritual beliefs throughout history.

Through engaging interpretation and live educational experiences, participants will gain a deeper appreciation for both the natural history of birds of prey and the important role they have played in shaping human culture for thousands of years.

Whether you are fascinated by wildlife, history, mythology, or world cultures, Talons Through Time offers a unique opportunity to explore the remarkable story of humans and raptors across the ages.

What to Expect:

During this program, participants will:

🦅 Explore the incredible diversity of hawks, falcons, owls, and eagles

🏺 Discover the importance of raptors in Ancient Egyptian, Mayan, Native American, and other world cultures

🥷 Learn how falconry became an honored tradition among Samurai and other historical societies

🌎 Examine how birds of prey influenced mythology, exploration, hunting, and survival throughout history

🦉 Uncover the fascinating adaptations that make raptors some of nature’s most skilled predators

📜 Hear stories, legends, and historical accounts that highlight humanity’s long relationship with birds of prey

🔍 Participate in a guided walking tour featuring interactive discussion and opportunities for questions

✨ Gain a new perspective on the connections between wildlife, culture, and human history

🤝 Enjoy an engaging educational experience designed for curious minds of all ages

www.miravenhill.org

www.northskyraptor.org

Join us every second Saturday for a free afternoon of hands‑on discovery. Families are invited to enjoy interactive experiences in science, history, and art while exploring the museum’s indoor and outdoor exhibits, including live animals and nature displays.

What to Expect:

• Engaging hands‑on science, history, and art activities
• Animal encounters and opportunities to explore museum exhibits
• Access to outdoor exhibits that inspire curiosity and exploration
• Creative problem‑solving and critical thinking experiences
• A fun, educational space for families to learn together

Please note: Free Second Saturdays are designed for quality family time. We kindly ask that no large, organized groups attend.

Travel the Ancient World at Raven Hill and study the art that preserves the history of major cultures. Study ancient techniques and technologies. Create a copper pendant using fire and stone as a reminder of the blurred boundaries that connect us with our past.

Threads Interwoven: Blurred Boundaries invites participants to explore how human creativity connects us across time. Through guided exploration, guests will discover how art, materials, and techniques reflect both cultural identity and shared human experience.

Participants will examine how ancient methods continue to influence modern artistic practices, highlighting the connections—both seen and unseen—between past and present. This program offers a meaningful opportunity to engage with history not just through observation, but through hands-on creation.

This experience is ideal for anyone interested in history, art, or creative exploration—no prior experience required.

What to Expect:
During this program, participants will:

🔥 Explore ancient art techniques and technologies from past cultures
🏺 Learn how art preserves history and cultural identity
🪨 Safely work with stone and fire to shape materials
🔨 Create a copper pendant inspired by ancient processes
🧠 Reflect on the blurred boundaries that connect past and present
👀 Participate in guided learning with time for questions and discussion
🤝 Enjoy a hands-on, engaging experience designed for curious minds

www.miravenhill.org

On August 12, 2026, the Moon will pass between Earth and the Sun, creating a rare partial solar eclipse that will be visible from Michigan. While only a small portion of the Sun will be covered in our area, this celestial event offers a unique opportunity to experience the wonder of an eclipse and learn more about the star that makes life on Earth possible.

Join Raven Hill Discovery Center for a celebration of science, discovery, and all things solar. Watch as the Sun transforms into a glowing crescent and daylight subtly dims during the middle of the day. Learn the science behind solar eclipses, explore the Sun’s influence on our planet, and discover how solar energy powers our world.

Don’t let the VERY partial eclipse stop you! This special event features hands-on activities that highlight the many ways the Sun impacts our everyday lives. Participants will create their own sundial, design a solar-themed bracelet, and visit the Alternative Energy House to explore renewable energy technologies.

Safe viewing is essential. Raven Hill will have ISO & CE Certified solar eclipse glasses available for purchase for $2 each, allowing guests to observe the eclipse safely.

This event is perfect for families, students, science enthusiasts, and anyone interested in experiencing a fascinating astronomical event in a fun and engaging environment.

What to Expect:

During this program, participants will:

🌞 Learn how solar eclipses occur and why they are such remarkable astronomical events

🌙 Safely observe Michigan’s partial solar eclipse using certified eclipse-viewing glasses

⏳ Create a working sundial and discover how people have used the Sun to tell time throughout history

📿 Design and make a solar-themed bracelet to take home

⚡ Explore solar energy and renewable technology at the Alternative Energy House

🔬 Discover fascinating facts about the Sun and its role in supporting life on Earth

👀 Experience the subtle changes in light and shadow during the eclipse

🤝 Enjoy a relaxed, interactive event designed for curious minds of all ages

🕶️ Purchase ISO & CE Certified solar eclipse glasses for $2 each (while supplies last)

www.miravenhill.org