Damariscotta River Association (DRA) is hosting a scientific drawing workshop led by artist and science illustrator David Wheeler on Saturday, Jan. 6, from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m., at DRA’s Great Salt Bay Farm. The workshop is appropriate for beginners, students, and practicing professionals alike.

The workshop is open to anyone age 12 and up. Space is limited. To help with planning, participants should register by Jan. 2 by calling 207-563-1393. The cost is $30, or $20 for DRA members.

Who might be interested in a science illustration workshop? By way of explanation, Wheeler quotes author Frances Zweifel: “This workshop is ‘for the biologist who is not an artist and the artist who is not a biologist.’”

Wheeler teaches close observation drawing – with tools, techniques, instruments, microscopic analysis, and precision measuring. He will bring with him a large collection of exotic shells, whale bones, and more, along with special pens and an assortment of pencils. He is enthusiastic about guiding participants as they explore the “confluence of science and art.”

Every summer, Wheeler also teaches a five-day Natural Science Illustration Workshop at Darling Marine Center (DMC) in Walpole. DRA’s workshop on Jan. 6 offers a good way to “try on” the topic for those who might be interested in the week-long program. For more information on the summer workshop at DMC, visit dmc.umaine.edu/education/summer-workshops.

A professional marine scientist illustrator who draws for scientists, Wheeler has taught science illustration workshops for many different groups along both coasts of the US, from Maine, to Alaska, to the Caribbean. He and his wife live in Harpswell, where they run Habitat: Open Ocean, a museum and Learning Lab focused on marine science illustration, marine studies, and art/science education. To learn more, visit oceancoastsciencedrawing.com.

For more information call (207) 563-1393, email dra@damariscottariver.org, or visit online at www.damariscottariver.org.