Henry David Thoreau, writer and observer of nature, went to live in the woods to live deliberately. Today, we encounter nature less and less with deliberation, but rather in a mode of superiority. Nature is finite; it is a resource. There is no lack of knowledge – neither about ecological destruction nor about possible solutions – yet this knowledge often remains inconsequential because it cannot be translated into tangible perception. Perhaps we can realign our relationship with nature and learn once again to see what lies before us.
In keeping with the motto “making the visible visible,” the “Nature Writing” workshop combines artistic research and creative experimentation. Through observation, writing, printing and drawing in hand-bound books, a space is created in which nature and the environment can be experienced anew. In this way, design becomes a form of thinking that shows how new approaches to nature and the world around us open up on a small scale.
Workshop flow:
After a brief theoretical introduction to the topic of “nature writing” and an introduction to creative techniques, participants will have the opportunity to get hands-on. Small fanfold booklets will be provided for writing, drawing, printing and painting. Creative inspiration is provided in the form of quotes, natural materials, stamps and photocopies, all of which can be used for collages or lavender oil frottage. The workshop concludes with a reflection session, during which the resulting works will fuel a subsequent discussion.
The event is part of LMU Sustainability Week, which will take place from 9-13 November 2026 at various LMU locations.
Prior registration is required. For more information, please see the LMU Sustainability Week program.