Become part of the Founding Nest
I'm asking 100 creatives to join me in developing their personal sketchbooking practice, and to grow this publication with me.
If you've been saying things like "I should be more creative" and have a regular morning routine, I'm here to tell you that this is a myth for the everyday person. There is no right way to be creative.
Sure, there are prolific writers and artists throughout history, becoming recluses and hiding in a hut for weeks on end, until they came out triumphant.
But you're looking for something to sustain you and to find joy. You want a chance to play, to slow down and to explore the world on your own terms.
Who joins the Founding Nest?
You are someone who identifies as infinitely curious and you enjoy putting pen to paper to record your thoughts. You want to make sense of your surroundings without mindlessly consuming information, perhaps by reducing your daily screen time.
This publication was created to be your monthly guide to learn different ways of recording the outdoors that you see, and creating a personal record that is connective, expressive and meaningful for you.
How This Started
As a tech worker and working mom in Silicon Valley, I've felt the frantic pace of daily life while balancing work and family priorities. Getting immersed in nature and drawing outdoors has been my healing salve.
This practice has helped me grow as a professional, minimized my screen time, and given me an outlet for coping with stress in a post-COVID world.
The Vision
I'm building an artistic newsletter that helps leaders, parents, and educators develop a creative practice through the observation of nature and art.
There are so many benefits to nature-based art and exposure—personal growth, better mental health, practicing joy, and contributing to the mission of stewarding nature through beauty, all in a sketchbook.
What You'll Gain
✨ Personal Growth
Develop a creative practice that deepens self-awareness and builds confidence.
🌿 Mental Wellness
Reduce stress and anxiety through nature observation and artistic expression.
🎨 Creative Joy
Learn to practice joy and mindfulness through low-pressure art-making.
🌍 Stewardship
Contribute to nature conservation through beauty and attention.
Why Join
Paid: "The Creative Canopy"
The paid subscription is specifically for people who are seeking a stronger connection to nature and stewardship. I will show you how to use sketching, writing and exploring to make this a meaningful part of your daily life.
$150/year
Save 20%
- ✓ Monthly nature story round-ups
- ✓ First access to in-person events
- ✓ Demos from my sketchbook
- ✓ Additional Love Notes stories
- ✓ How-tos & curated resources
- ✓ Monthly 1:1 "Studio" feedback
- ✓ Full archive + commenting
Free: "The Understory"
Free members receive light nature news, event updates and resource recommendations.
- ✓ Monthly nature story round-ups
- ✓ First access to in-person events
- ✓ Demos from my sketchbook
NOT INCLUDED:
- ✗ Additional Love Notes stories
- ✗ How-tos & curated resources
- ✗ Monthly 1:1 "Studio" feedback
- ✗ Full archive + commenting
Ready to join?
Be part of the first 100 before September 15th to receive special perks
Additional Perks for Joining Now
🎨 Custom Illustrated Sticker Pack
An exclusive set of stickers featuring original illustrations from Love Notes to Nature.
🎒 Nature Journaling Starter Field Kit
Limited to first 12 members. Everything you need to start: compact sketchbag, landscape sketchbook, waterbrush, Blackwing Matte Pencil, fineliner, binder clip, paint sock & watercolor palette. Valued at $75.
🌍 Support Environmental Action
5% of membership sales go to an environmental non-profit of your choice. You decide where your impact goes.
💚 My Infinite Gratitude
Your membership helps keep this independent publication alive and thriving, so we can continue serving you with intention and care.
Here's what others say about my work
"It really lifted the pressure and allowed me to dive into a specific experience. I think that could really open up nature to a lot of people who feel like they don't have a deep connection with it."
"Clara puts a lot of effort and intention into providing feedback and encouragement. She is everything that I need and want from an instructor. I really like her teaching style."
"I've been trying to motivate myself to draw and paint but I don't do it, thinking it will take a lot of time. This is a way to dive in simply and not something that needs to take a lot of time."
"I wanted a mindfulness break and to connect with others. I'd love more of the same! I really enjoyed the workshop Clara put together. It was a good mix of receiving and giving."
How You Can Help Make This Real
- JOIN as a Founding Creative
- SUPPORT ongoing newsletter operations or buy me a latte
- SHARE this with someone you think would enjoy the newsletter