Drawing from Nature
By Cllr Bernie Davis
The June topic for Eco Hub Sidmouth will be ‘Drawing from Nature’ to extend the focus on nature and biodiversity experienced at the Sid Valley Nature Festival on 7th June. The final Eco HUb sessions before the summer break will take place on 14th June at Tourist Information Centre and on 28th June at the Library from 11:00-1:00.
We are fortunate to have Kathy Gray, a local artist and published illustrator, who would like to invite you to come and experience drawing from nature. The sessions will be informal and open to all approaches however Kathy is happy to offer input and tips if desired. Kathy will bring some natural inspiration from her farm in the form of flowers, greenery, vegetation, brush and shrubbery, perhaps to compose a still life or to spark imagination and creativity.
Drawing from nature or biodiversity is a vital tool for documenting and preserving the world’s nature. This type of drawing is important because it helps us to understand and appreciate the variety of life on Earth. The practice of drawing nature from our immediate environment can also be used to raise awareness of the importance of conservation and the threats to biodiversity. An added bonus of drawing from nature is that it can be a tool for learning or an aide-memoire for the things you are observing and interested in.
Creating a nature or biodiversity drawing is a great way to show your support for the planet. By paying attention to small details, taking your time and using drawing techniques you can create a beautiful and accurate drawing that will educate others about the importance of nature.
On the day a variety of materials will be available to use but you can bring your own pencils, pastels or paints if you prefer.
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In Tune with Nature: Wildlife events in the Sid Valley
by Dr Emma Pilgrim
This June, Sidmouth celebrates our own connection with wildlife through a weekend of nature-themed events, perfect for all ages and interests hosted by Sid Valley Biodiversity Group and Eco Hub Sidmouth. This is perfect opportunity to pause and reflect on the natural world around us; and how we can encourage both wildlife and ourselves to thrive.
Sid Valley Biodiversity Group’s Summer Festival of Nature – 6th – 7th June
Celebrate local wildlife and community action at the Sid Valley Biodiversity Group’s Summer Festival of Nature.
Friday 6 June, 7pm – Kennaway House, Sidmouth
Wildlife photographer Carol Harper presents the beauty of our marine life through her unique free-swimming lens.
Saturday 7 June, 10am–3pm – The Byes, Sidmouth
A family-friendly day of nature-inspired activities including guided walks, storytelling, singing, and eco-art. The Nature Photo Competition is now open—details at: sidvalleybiodiversity.org/sidmouth-nature-festival-2025
Saturday 7 June, 9.15pm–11pm – The Byes
Join a free guided bat walk. Booking essential; spaces are limited.
Eco Hub Sidmouth: Part of a year-long project promoting local community climate action
Sunday 8 June – Radway Cinema, Sidmouth
Wilding – Film screening and panel discussion (inspired by Isabella Tree’s bestselling book) exploring the rewilding of the Knepp Estate.
Hosted by agroecologist Dr Emma Pilgrim with speakers:
- Rebecca Wrigley (Rewilding Britain)
- Mish Kennaway (Escot Estate)
- Vicky McLachlan (Ecological Restorer)
- Dr Nick Kirsop-Taylor (University of Exeter)
Tickets from £7.45 at sidmouth.scottcinemas.co.uk
Upcoming events: on Protecting Biodiversity
- 14 June –11am–1pm – Sidmouth Tourist Information Centre
- 28 June, 11am–1pm – Sidmouth Library
- 11–11.45am: Storytime with children’s author Jo Earlam reading Rosa’s Footprint – a gentle tale about how small choices can help the planet.
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