Urban Sketch Walk at St. Patrick’s Island, a Jane’s Walk (Adventures for Wilderness)
May 4, 2025
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Text and photos by Sara Heerema
We had the pleasure of teaming up with Carolyn Fisher for the second Jane’s Walk of the year. Although the weather was a bit dreary, these keen artists still showed up to learn more about their local community. Carolyn began the day by talking about and sketching Jane Jacobs, the woman who started the Jane’s Walks movement. As we travelled through St. Patrick’s Island, we noticed the wildlife and water features surrounding us. Wandering along the Bow River, we talked about how the river gets its water, and how human activities have changed its course and composition over the years. We discussed riparian habitat and how species have become specially adapted to the areas along riverbanks. Watching the Canada Geese goslings form a line in the water, and the Osprey sweeping overhead, we also brainstormed some of the causes of declining riparian and water habitat in Alberta. We also shared our thoughts on water allocation and drought/flood cycles, and what we can do to advocate for more sustainable water systems. Carolyn challenged the group to draw what they noticed quickly, without being scared to make mistakes.
As we travelled back to the tables, Carolyn gave out some coloured cards and markers. On a strict timer, we draw some of the species from the riparian zone and the river that we had been discussing. Afterwards, we set up a beautiful collaborative art installation – A winding river with key species living along its banks.
Award-winning artist/author Carolyn Fisher has illustrated nine picture books, four of which she also wrote. Her book Summer Feet (with writer Sheree Fitch) won the David Booth Prize at the Canadian Children’s Book Awards. In addition to teaching at art college for seven years, Carolyn has talked to thousands of kids and adults about writing, art, and making books. She investigates science and nature by sketchbook from her home in Calgary. See more at www.carolynfisher.com or follow her on social media (Instagram: @carolyn_fisher_illustration).
