Birds Inspire

Birds Inspire is an irreverent romp into the ways birds inspire all kinds of creativity. Talks, interactive experiences and an exhibition will connect photographers, comic artists, illustrators, naturalists, community organizers, conservationists, and kids of all ages. Held on the historic campus of Columbus College of Art & Design, anyone and everyone who appreciates birds are encouraged to pick a topic and attend a session (or two!)

The Inept Birder exhibition runs 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Monday, Sept. 18–Monday, Sept. 25 in the Cloyd Family Animation Center, 390 E. Broad St. To access the space, ring the security buzzer at Cleveland Avenue entrance. Once inside the building, turn right and head down the hallway to the gallery. Please note: The gallery is closed Sunday, Sept. 24.

More Birds Inspire schedule details:

Thursday, Sept. 21:

• 3:30–5:30 p.m.: Comics Writing Workshop with Rosemary Mosco, Room 142, Cloyd Family Animation Center, 390 East Broad Street, Columbus OH, 43215 

  • This interactive workshop will explore the anatomy of comics, the power of panels, and how to engage humor in support of science!

• 6:30–7:30 p.m.: Keynote with Julie Zickefoose, Canzani Auditorium, 60 Cleveland Ave, Columbus, OH 43215 

  • Join us for our Birds Inspire Keynote Speaker, Julie Zickefoose. Learn how art & design are integral to the scientific study of nature. 

Friday, Sept. 22:

• 11 a.m.–12:15 p.m.: The Joy of Birding & Nature, Nicole Jackson, Room 142, Cloyd Family Animation Center. Light lunch provided (free).

  • Join Nicole Jackson for an interactive discussion about how nature inspires and connects people. A free, light lunch will be provided.

• 1–2:30 p.m.: Sketch Session with Ohio Nature Education Avian Ambassadors, co-hosted by Manon VanSchoyck and CCAD Chair of Animation Charlotte Belland, Room 142, Cloyd Family Animation Center

  • Bring your sketchbook and practice your life-drawing skills with several avian ambassador models from Ohio Nature Education.

• 3–4 p.m.: Gallery Reception for the Inept Birder, Cloyd Family Animation Center

Saturday, Sept. 23:

• 11:30 a.m–1 p.m.: Draw Along with Maris Wicks, Room 142, Cloyd Family Animation Center

  • Learn how to draw a Bower Bird with Maris Wicks! This family-friendly event will empower kids and adults to engage their visual language. A great event for kids of all ages! Drawing supplies, snacks, and drinks will be provided.

• 1–2:00 p.m.: Book Signing with Maris Wicks, Community Space, Cloyd Family Animation Center.

  • Books will be available for purchase on-site thanks to the Book Loft. 

Learn more about Birds Inspire >