CREEKSIDE AT THE CIBOLO
Once again, just before sunset, I found the Barred Owl. This time, resting against a large cypress tree across the creek from me.
As usually happens, my finding it was a combination of patience, persistence and the luck that comes from sitting on the right rock from which to conduct a methodical tree-to-tree search.
But on this particular evening my luck was doubled, not from a second owl but from the surprising appearance, not 20 feet away, of the mouse bird of Cibolo Creek.
I typically begin my search for this 4-inch chocolate ball of fluff in mid-to-late October. It arrives unknown and unseen by most, its winter world spent among the massive ribbon-like roots of bald cypress and in crevices of fallen branches and rocks searching for insects, spiders, millipedes and sowbugs.
They are never here in large numbers; the most I have ever seen in a day is two, and that was only a few days ago. And, according to my eBird list, I have only encountered it at the nature center 22 times since December of 2020.
For comparison, I have turned in 22 checklists from the nature center just since Nov. 17, 2024, as I write this.
Finding the mouse bird is a lot like finding my favorite nature center bird, the aforementioned Barred Owl. On any given day there is never a guarantee of Teter will demonstrate these using screen and camera for everyone to watch. Each student will then be provided a 1/2-inch wooden dowel rod. Students will create a “carving stick” that is basically a stick that demonstrates carving techniques and patterns. The last half of class will be work time and assistance.
All supplies are included, and class size limited. For details call Paula at 210269-8349; register at www. hccarts.org.
Saturday Mini Workshop
Jan. 25: Acrylic pour, Julie Majek, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
The art form of pouring paint onto canvas, also known as fluid art, originated quite by accident, in the 1930s.
In the early pouring mediums for acrylic paints were developed, and thanks to social media, acrylic pour has become a global trend.
Class to be held at the Classroom at The Agri-Cultural Museum and Arts Center, 102 City Park Road, Boerne. Supplies included with class fee; class size limited. Send inquiries to president@ hccarts. org. Register today at www. hccarts.org. Discounts with HCCArts membership.
HCCA ‘Art AfterHours’
Enjoy an evening of camaraderie and creativity at the classroom from 7-9 p.m. Tuesdays at The AgriCultural Museum and Arts Center, 102 City Park Road, Boerne.
Supplies included; class size is limited. Send inquiries to president@hccarts. org; register today at www. hccarts.org; or call Paula at 210-269-8349, — Jan. 21: Metal stamping. Create individual designs in metal with the art of imprinting metal blanks with designs and letters.
Use decorative metal stamps, punches, findings and beads. Concepts include metal forging, metal jewelry smithing, and finishing techniques.
Make a pendant or earrings with your own unique style.
— Jan. 28: Block printing. Spend your evening immersed in relief printing.
Carve a negative design into a printing plate applying ink, and pull a positive image from the carved surface.
The class focuses on simple graphic images, applying printmaking ink, and traditional use of a printing press. Follow the easy design principles and process for guaranteed beginner success.
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