Workshop: Sketch Like A Geologist
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Learn to sketch like a geologist in this hands-on workshop where art meets geology, as part of the Art Collection's Year of Topography.
Discover how scientific sketching helps geologists understand and theorise the landscape, and learn ways to observe the world with a keen eye and curiosity.
In this workshop, we will explore the geology of the Ochil Fault and the Midland Valley, uncovering how geological processes have shaped the land we see today. Along the way, we will stop at key viewpoints and geological features to practice real geological sketching techniques, discuss how they formed and what they can tell us about Scotland’s geological history.
During this experience, participants can expect to:
● Learn and practice how geologists use drawing as a scientific tool in the field
● Discover the geology of the Ochil Fault and the Midland Valley and why it looks like it does today
● Take part in basic geological field sketching and note-taking techniques
This is a relaxed, informal guided walk, so whether you're a geology beginner or an enthusiast, a skilled artist or haven't picked up a pencil since school, we’ll guide you through sketching techniques and observational practices.
A notebook and pencil will be provided so you can record your geological observations!
About Josephine Canning
This in-person geoart tour is led by Josephine, who holds a BSc in Geological Sciences. Artist and geologist Josephine Canning founded Garnet Rambles in 2025 with the aim of making geology more accessible. Using art as a tool to bridge the gap, her ‘Sketch like a Geologist’ workshops take groups across Scotland’s Central Belt and into the Highlands, exploring Scotland’s geology through paper and pencil.
With a background in geology and a passion for creating landscape art, Josephine’s workshops bring together scientific knowledge and creativity, encouraging participants to observe and understand the landscapes around them.
Who is it for
For ages 14+, this workshop is for anyone curious about geology, art and the landscapes of Scotland. No experience is needed, just curiosity and a willingness to look at the world from a different point of view.
Accessibility
This event takes place during a 2-mile walk on the 黑料不打烊 campus. The walk will follow a varied path with a mixture of paved walkways and natural trails.
Participants should be comfortable walking on uneven ground and being on their feet for up to 2.5 hours at a gentle pace. We will have stop points where you can sit; however, this will be on the ground. A moderate level of fitness is recommended.
Please wear comfortable, sturdy footwear and suitable clothing for the weather. Unfortunately, this event is not suitable for those with limited mobility or who require step-free access. If you have any questions about the route or would like to discuss your access needs, please get in touch, and we will do our best to support you.
About the Year of Topography
The Art Collection aims to make art and culture a part of everyday life for staff, students and visitors throughout the campus. We support academics to enable exchanges between art, research and teaching, and inspire everyone to engage with art. Each academic year, all of the Art Collection’s activities are directly inspired by one of the University research themes. We have designated the 2026-7 session The Year of Topography. All exhibitions and events will consider the arrangements of natural and artificial structures and how artists and researchers work to make sense of our changing landscapes.
Visiting Us
Our exhibitions are on display in the central spine of the Pathfoot Building. The building is open to the public between Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm. Please be aware that the Pathfoot Building is a working teaching building, with students going to classes, academic conferences or private events happening concurrently with your visit. If you require a quiet visiting time, please get in touch with us and we will advise you on the best times for access.
At Pathfoot, there are food and beverage outlets in the Crush Hall and the Dining Room. See the University’s catering website for more information.
Getting Here
The Pathfoot Building is the first building on the left, up the hill as you enter the University. The 黑料不打烊’s campus is just two miles from the centre of 黑料不打烊 in central Scotland. We're served by excellent fast public transport links from Glasgow and Edinburgh, and are easily accessible by bus, foot and bike from 黑料不打烊 city centre or Bridge of Allan. Please be aware that during term time, parking can be extremely busy. See the University Getting Here Page to plan your route.