Bizarre and spectacular creatures hide in plain sight all around us because they are too small to see without magnification. In this class we will go on a micro-safari, hunting down these hidden microorganisms using microscopes and capturing them through observational drawing. After an orientation to the microscopes, Rachel Mirus will introduce some helpful and beginner-friendly drawing techniques for illustrating the tiny things that live in water and soil. Curious about something specific? Participants are welcome to bring their own samples!

About Rachel Mirus: Rachel is a teaching artist, nature writer, and lifelong learner. Her passion is to inspire observation, experimentation, and creativity in students of all ages through her visual art, writing, and teaching. Originally trained in biology, she has worked in research labs and museums across the country, including the California Academy of Sciences and the Harvard Museum of Natural History. She continues to teach online for the Harvard Museum of Natural History, in person for Vermont nature centers and arts organizations, and has been a resident artist at public schools around the state. Rachel actively practices the skills of learning by pursuing hobbies she’s bad at, including Celtic harp, rock climbing, and belly dance.