New Artists’ Workshop Series at Bartram’s Garden

How does nature inspire you? We invite you to join us for a new series of artists’ workshops at the Garden, rooted in our rich history, that will tap into the beauty that is all around us. Taught by local professional artists, our workshops are a fun and engaging way for you to explore a wide range of media and experiment with your creative side. Perfect for artists of all ability levels — from beginner to advanced, and anywhere in between!

Rooted in Our Rich History

Following in the tradition of pioneering American explorer and botanical illustrator William Bartram, our Artists’ Workshops are rooted in the rich history of Bartram’s Garden. Considered one of the first American naturalists, he explored early America and documented his travels with writings and illustrations in his signature style. We’ll take a closer look at the many facets of William’s work, as well as other pioneering artists, in this series.

Inspired Instruction

Much like William Bartram, teaching artists Heather Rinehart and Alina Josan approach fine art through their love of nature and history. As highly knowledgeable Bartram’s Garden enthusiasts, these local artists are in a unique position to offer students instruction in a variety of disciplines, including illustration, painting, nature printing, and paper-cut herbariums.

Create Your Own Works of Art

Each workshop is designed so that, at the end of the day, you will take home your own finished piece of art. The format is relaxed, so you can work at your own pace while receiving as much instruction as you need. You may use our provided art supplies at no additional cost. You are also welcome to bring your own.

All Levels of Artists are Invited – From Beginner, to Intermediate, to Advanced

We offer three categories of Artists’ Workshops: Basic, Specialty, and Family.

Basics Workshops: These workshops generally last two hours and are suitable for artists of all levels of experience. Ages 16 and up. $18/person or free to Bartram’s Garden members.

Specialty Workshops: These workshops are the most intense in terms of time and materials, generally running three hours. Artists of all levels of experience are welcome. Ages 16 and up. $76/person or $19 for Bartram’s Garden members.

Family Workshops: Create beautiful works of art with your children. The instruction will be accessible to kids, but artists of all ages are encouraged to participate. Ages 5 and up. Younger siblings can attend, but it should be understood that they’ll be taking a backseat to the older kids in the class. Price: $10/person or free to Bartram’s Garden members.

Make New Friends. Connect with Old Friends.

This is the perfect opportunity to spend peaceful time in the Garden with your pencil or paintbrush. Come on your own and be welcomed into our various workshops, or invite a friend or family member to join you. You’ll gain new skills that will help you grow as an artist, and you’ll find Heather and Alina’s unquenchable curiosity to be infectious.

Getting Here

We keep our workshops reasonably priced, and we provide discounts for Bartram members. The garden is accessible by the #36 trolley. Parking is free and bicycle racks are also available. Our grounds are free and open to the public year-round, dusk to dawn, except on City-observed holidays. Please call 215-729-5281 with questions.

Find a Workshop

Click here to find the workshop that is right for you.

Instructor Bios:

Bartram’s Garden Artists’ Workshops are taught by Heather Rinehart and Alina Josan. Rinehart has a professional background in illustration and design and a deep interest in nature and storytelling. Josan studied painting at the Tyler School of Art. Her work has been commissioned by several notable historic institutions in Philadelphia.