discover nature through artmaking

The speed limit on the British canal network is 5 mph. There is no better place to slow down and observe your surroundings. I live and create aboard my floating studio Layla, a purple 60-ft narrowboat, and draw directly on this lifestyle in facilitating creative workshops.

My workshops are for artists looking to be inspired by the natural world, nature lovers who want to get in touch with their creative side, or anyone interested in observing the world around them in a new way. The emphasis of the workshops is on the creative process and having fun. No background in biology or art required, only curiosity.

2026 events calendar

Interested in collaborating on an event or lecture? I'd love to hear from you!
Please reach out via email or DM me on Instagram.

2026 weekly online drop-in programme TBA. Please check back for updates or follow me on Instagram for announcements.

11 Feb: Edge Hill Horticultural Society (Ormskirk, UK)

Creative workshop: An eight-page zine inspired by botany
Edge Hill University Horticultural Society

20-23 Apr: We Carry On (Reutum, the Netherlands)

Creative workshop: Nature journaling inspired by the landscape of the Twente region.
This workshop is part of a holiday package offered by tour operator We Carry On.

26 Jan: Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) (online)

"The value of—not so—simply observing in botany"
Online guest lecture for the course Non-Human Designers

3-6 Aug: We Carry On (Reutum, the Netherlands)

Creative workshop: Nature journaling inspired by the landscape of the Twente region.
This workshop is part of a holiday package offered by tour operator We Carry On.

19-21 Aug: Botanical University Challenge (Reading, UK)

Guest lecture
Botanical University Challenge

here's what participants say

”I appreciated the low-key, positive and creative approach of the instructor, and that she explained the 3 parts of the workshop right up front. I have continued to use what I learned in the workshop and shared the ideas and practices with others.”

past collaborators and speaking engagements include:

UConn NatureRx (Nature journaling inspired by the plants of the UConn Botanical Conservatory);

SICK! Mental Health Arts Programme (SMASH) (Towpath-inspired nature journaling);

The Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University (Nature journaling inspired by the winter landscape);

Joshua's Conservation Trust (Nature Journaling inspired by the winter landscape).

Botanical Society of Britain and Ireland (Conference talk. Watch recording here!)

”Kristel's approach was very accessible and encouraging.
Her supplies were fabulous. She was connective and
super helpful, informative and friendly.”

”I enjoyed the way the class was structured and organized: presentation by the instructor, working with self-learning sheet (with exercise), going outside to get inspiration, and finalizing a project! Also, I enjoyed the atmosphere, that the class felt welcoming and open to everyone.”

”I know everyone who attended had a wonderful time
and I think several will be inspired to continue to create.
I have already pulled out my old drawing supplies
and intend to make more time for my right brain
to stretch its legs (or neurons!) again.”

”I don't consider myself a visual artist or drawing as a strength, but the program surprised me in what I could do.”

”It did inspire me to try to draw more,
just because drawing so good for your brain.”

the Boating Botanist on Insta