Workshops & Lectures Calendar
Live outdoor performances and music add extra magic to the idyllic garden ambiance. Experience a synergy of culture and nature with Shakespeare, opera, puppet performances, global music, jazz, classical, and more.
Birds and Botany Sketching Series
Join Catherine Hamilton on Wednesdays from May 7–28 for a workshop that combines birding, observation, and art. Through the lens of drawing, come explore the unique intersections between the habitats at Descanso Gardens and the bird species that inhabit them. The supply list will be provided in a confirmation email. $150 members, $180 non-members. Advance […]
Wander and Wonder: Family Wellness
Wander and Wonder is a nature-based workshop designed and led by Laura Garcia, PhD to help parents and children reconnect. Rooted in evidence-based practices from early childhood development, psychology, and nature […]
Painting with Negative Space
Learning to paint negative shapes is the quickest way to take your art to the next level. Join artist Julie Crouch for a four-week series that focuses on negative space. This class will guide you in creating depth within your paintings. You will be amazed when objects “magically” appear as you learn to explore the […]
Sketch a Story
Join a sketching workshop led by John Pitblado to help find and record the defining elements of the Descanso landscape. Learn to use visual tools and story-building strategies to help your story emerge. $35 members, $45 non-members. Advance registration required, registration opens to members on June 5 at 10am and to non-members on June 10 […]
Photography 101 for Teens
See the beauty of Descanso Gardens through the lens! In this Photography 101 workshop series, teens will be introduced to essential and basic DSLR functions, how to control settings, consider composition and visual strategies, and gain knowledge of basic file organization and off-loading practices. Students will engage in discussion, photo walks through the garden, and […]
Kokedama Workshop
Learn about the art of kokedama, the centuries-old Japanese style of growing plants in a moss-covered soil ball. Led by Descanso gardener Jenny Flores, students in this workshop will learn about the history of this growing method, see spectacular examples, and create their own kokedama-style plant to take home. All materials are provided. $50 members, […]
Sketch a Story
Join a sketching workshop led by John Pitblado to help find and record the defining elements of the Descanso landscape. Learn to use visual tools and story-building strategies to help your story emerge. $35 members, $45 non-members. Advance registration required, registration opens to members on June 5 at 10am and to non-members on June 10 […]