Drawing from life and death

Since the dawn of human existence Nature has inspired curiosity and creativity. Join us in the lantern-lit environment of Secret Headquarters as we explore the mysteries of life and death, drawing animal artifacts illuminated by the light of pure beeswax candles. Artist and environmentalist Celina Starnes will offer natural history related to each animal to deepen your understanding of these sculptural forms as violinist Genevieve MacKay creates a gently inspiring musical environment.

Note: These drawing sessions will be held the first Thursday of every month, with a flat fee of $20, or sign up for 3 sessions for $50.

Event Notes / Be Prepared:

• Bring your favourite drawing supplies or experiment with ours
• This event is best suited for participants ages 11+
• Complimentary tea & snacks, with additional beverages by donation

Your donation contributes directly to supporting our programming of cultural learning and artistic sharing. If you have financial barriers preventing you from purchasing a ticket, please email and we will do our best to accommodate you. We are sincerely grateful for all support.

Celina Starnes’ day job is the Outreach Director at the Endangered Ecosystems Alliance, a national conservation organization. There, she is driving forward solutions to the biodiversity and climate crises by fostering meaningful collaboration across diverse stakeholders, accelerating conservation on a national scale. She grew up in Montreal, fully enjoying the city’s rich culture, as she started a career in visual arts. After completing schooling at the McGill School of Environment, she headed west to BC to start contributing to nature protection in creative ways. After the workday is done, she enjoys dreaming up novel ideas for nature-centred events that introduce people to ecology in fun and sometimes weird ways! These events are a throwback to her many years in environmental education as a tour guide at Ducks Unlimited, an events coordinator Metro Vancouver Parks, and as the public education manager at Stanley Park.

Secret Headquarters is gratefully situated on the unceded territories of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh peoples. We honor, respect, and give thanks to our hosts.

Host or Publisher Secret Lantern Society