The Art of Noticing March 9, 2026

The Art of Noticing

Ended

Required Book:

“Lost and Found”; Amy Heller & Gail Browne; Schiffer Publishing; ISBN 978-0764359422 

(All Books Can be purchased at Brewster Book Store)

Suggested Books:

  1. “Still: The Art of Noticing”; Mary Jo Hoffman; Monacelli; ISBN 978-1580936330
  2. “Nature’s Palette: A Color Reference System from the Natural World”; Patrick Baty; Princeton University Press; ISBN 978-0691217048
  3. “Mudlarking: Lost and Found on the River Thames”; Lara Maiklem; Bloomsbury Publishing; ISBN 978-1408889237
  4. “Inside the Head of a Collector: Neuropsychological Forces at Play”; Shirley M. Mueller, MD; Marquand Books; ISBN 978-0999652275

Recommended Supplies:

Highly Recommended:

  1. Smartphone camera
  2. Journal with watercolor paper (cold press)
  3. Soft pencil (HB, H, or #2)
  4. Pencil sharpener
  5. Technical drawing pen
  6. Refillable brush pen
  7. Colored pencils (watercolor pencils work well)
  8. Watercolor set (Art Toolkit)

Optional:

  1. Backpack or shoulder bag
  2. Binder clips
  3. Small ruler
  4. Small mixing palette
  5. Small sponge
  6. Small rag
  7. Small water bottle
  8. Small water spray bottle
  9. Small syringe (no needle)
  10. White gel pen
  11. Color wheel
  12. Small hand lens or magnifier
  13. Small flower/plant press

March 9, 2026 – 10:00 - 12:00 am – The Art of Noticing – Brewster Book Store

Description: In this workshop, participants will curate their own collection of found natural objects gathered from nearby Brewster nature preserves and beaches. Through writing, photography, poetry, storytelling, and painting, we will explore how ordinary objects hold extraordinary stories. Together, we’ll uncover the ecological science, cultural meaning, artistic symbolism, and personal narratives hidden within what has been lost—and found. Each session blends field exploration with creative studio practice.

We begin in the field. Participants visit a Brewster preserve or beach and practice intentional observation: slowing down, noticing texture, pattern, color, placement, and context. What is abandoned? What has traveled? What has endured?

We’ll introduce the idea of a curated collection — not just gathering objects but choosing them with purpose. The session closes with a reflective conversation about why certain objects call to us.

Topics Covered:

  1. Collect a small, ethical selection of found objects (shells, driftwood, feathers, stones, seed pods, seaweed, etc.)
  2. Photograph objects in situ before moving them
  3. Create quick field sketches and sensory notes
  4. Write short “first impressions” pieces — What might this object have witnessed?