Botanical Owls: Art Inspired by Nature with Julia Briest
Location:
Studio West
587 Palm Canyon Drive, suite 208
Borrego Springs, CA
DATE & TIME:
November 14 2026
Saturday
from 12 to 3 pm
Price:
Members: $ 100
Non-Members: $120
DESCRIPTION:
Create Whimsical Owls from Natural Desert Botanicals!
Discover the magic of transforming nature’s treasures into delightful works of art. In this hands-on workshop, participants will create an adorable pair of woodland-inspired botanical owls using all-natural materials gathered from the landscape. Working with pinecones, acorn caps, dried grasses, seed pods, and other natural botanicals, you’ll learn simple assembly techniques while exploring texture, balance, and design inspired by the beauty of nature. Each owl develops its own unique personality, making every creation one-of-a-kind. No artistic experience is necessary—just bring your imagination. Leave with a charming handmade sculpture perfect for displaying year-round or giving as a thoughtful handmade gift.
Workshop Overview
Nature has long inspired artists to create beautiful works from the materials found all around us. In this relaxing and creative workshop, you’ll transform ordinary botanical elements into whimsical pinecone owls perched on a rustic desert branch.
Using natural materials including:
• Pinecones for the owl’s body
• Acorn caps for expressive eyes
• Soft fountain grass for feathers
• Natural seeds, pods, and wood pieces for the beak
• Botanical pieces for feet
• A dried desert branch as the perch
Participants will assemble their own charming botanical sculpture with glue while learning basic design principles and creative techniques.
Throughout the class, we’ll discuss:
• Selecting interesting botanical materials
• Appreciating texture, form, and natural patterns
• Creative composition using nature’s palette
• Sustainable art practices using renewable natural materials
• Tips for preserving and displaying botanical artwork
MATERIALS:
MATERIALS PROVIDED BY INSTRUCTOR!
Suggested items-
Washed desert sticks or logs from the attendee’s personal collection (suggested not required)
Pinecones from attendee’s personal collection (suggested not required)
Apron to protect clothing from glue
Mask for glue smell or allergies to natural items
Note: Owl fur is made from fountain grass, for grass allergies, we suggest you take a non-drowsy allergy pill such as Zyrtec or other brand of choice prior to attending the workshop
20 Student Maximum
INSTRUCTOR BIO:
Julia Briest | Earth Art Creations
Julia Briest is a Southern California eco-artist and founder of Earth Art Creations, where naturally fallen seeds, pods, bark, and botanical materials are transformed into intricate mandalas and contemporary nature-inspired art. Guided by a deep respect for the environment, she ethically forages and repurposes natural elements to create works that celebrate the beauty,
balance, and interconnectedness of the Earth. Inspired by the desert landscapes she calls home, Julia’s artwork invites viewers to slow down, reconnect with nature, and discover beauty in the overlooked. Her award-winning work has been
exhibited throughout California and beyond, including the Borrego Art Institute, Joshua Tree National Park Association, Hi-Desert Nature Museum, Artist Council Palm Desert, and Art Basel Miami satellite exhibitions. She is also an educator, sharing her passion through Eco-Art Mandala workshops that inspire creativity, mindfulness, and environmental stewardship.
“Creating art with nature to inspire wonder, mindfulness, and a deeper connection to Mother Earth”
REGISTRATION:
Please register in advance for this workshop.
Class may be cancelled due to low enrollment.
To become a Borrego Art Institute member click HERE