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Drop-in Sketching

Location:
Various locations
Age group:
10 and up
Duration
2 hours
Cost:
Free with admission

 

Have you ever wished you could use the museum’s collections for sketching inspiration? Now’s your chance! We'll be showcasing rarely seen museum objects to create a still-life setup for you to practice your drawing skills.   

If you’ve been to our drop-in sketching before, this month is a little different. We are going to zoom up-close, to the small world of seeds and fruits. After all, plants grow all around us and play a crucial role for life on earth! Come and use our microscopes to sketch these tiny specimens. We will also be opening up our outdoor courtyard, filled with native plant species for you to explore and sketch (so remember to dress for the weather!).  

This free-with-admission activity will be back on the third Thursday of October. Keep an eye on our website and watch for our monthly newsletter for more info. 

Tip: If you plan to attend more than one drop-in sketching session, buy a Mammoth Pass to save big! For only $35 for an adult, you get a year’s worth of admission (including all the 2025 Drop-In Sketching sessions) and great discounts at the Museum Shop and Café.

 

FAQs for participants:

Will materials be provided?

If you have your own supplies, we encourage you to bring them. Some basic drawing materials will be available (pencils, paper, etc.).

Are there any art supplies that are not allowed?  

Please do not bring wet medias (such as paint, ink, water and sprays, including fixatives). This is to ensure that our museum objects stay safe. To continue offering this program, we need to ensure we follow responsible conservation practices. 

Is there anything else I should bring?

Consider bringing headphones. There will be some conversations in the room and we will not be playing music. If you like to listen to your own music and/or if you want to block distractions out, headphones might be a good idea.

Will you teach me how to draw?

This is not a drawing class, but rather a time and place that provides a creative environment where you can observe and sketch objects that are normally stored behind-the-scenes.

Can I book a spot?

Seats are available on a first come, first served basis.

Is this program for adults only?

People of any age or ability who are interested in slowing down to enjoy some observational sketching are welcome to participate.

How long is the program?

We open the doors at 5:30 pm and close them at 7:30 pm. Participants are welcome to come for that entire session or drop-in anytime during that window.  

Can I book a private sketching time?

The museum cannot accommodate private sketching sessions. However, we encourage you to sketch on your own throughout the museum during operational hours.