Reservations: Required—Call 619-231-1515, ext. 4142 or download registration form
Questions: Education Department or call 619-557-3969
Audience: Adults, ages 16 and up
Location: San Diego Zoo
Program fee:
$80 per class or $150 for 2 classes for members, $90 per class or $170 for 2 classes for nonmembers
Duration: 9 a.m.–3 p.m.
Dates: May 17 and 24 (Saturdays)

Calendar: An Encounter with Art and Animals NEW!

red river hog

At the San Diego Zoo

May 17 and May 24 (Saturdays)
9 a.m.–3 p.m.
The members of our animal collection have been called living works of art, and now you can create your own work of art as you're inspired by the impact of an animal encounter. Whether you're a beginning, intermediate, or advanced artist, you will enjoy learning from our expert art instructor, Elizabeth Washburn.

Take one or both of our classes: each session has different wildlife "models." Classes start with a short tour, led by a Zoo educator who will take you off to an amazing animal presentation. After some time to observe, study, and sketch the animal model, you'll head to the studio, where Ms. Washburn will guide your work through both group and individual instruction.

You'll be amazed to see your creation evolve from a sketch to your own personal interpretation of an amazing creature—in vibrant colors, black and white, or whatever expresses your vision best. You are free to bring your favorite medium to work in and possibly try a new one. Suggested mediums are acrylic paint, watercolor, pen, pencil, or charcoal.

Program fee: $80 per class, or $150 for 2 classes, for members; $90 per class, or $170 for 2 classes, for nonmembers.

Animal Schedule:

Saturday, May 17: cheetah and serval
Saturday, May 24: red river hogs

Note: Scheduled animal encounters could change due to animal health care needs.

Applications are processed by postmark/fax date. A confirmation letter will be sent to you upon enrollment. If the program you registered for is sold out, your payment will be returned. Sorry, no refunds on cancellations with less than two weeks' notice or on fees less than $30. We retain a $10 cancellation fee per person, per program. Please note that some elements of all classes are subject to change due to weather, animal illness, availability, etc. Prices subject to change without notice.