There’s something special about making art outdoors. It might be the warmth of the sun, the sound of birds chirping, or simply being barefoot on the grass. Whatever it is for you, creating art in nature has a wonderful way of slowing us down and reconnecting us - with ourselves and the world around us.
Creating in natural spaces can ease stress, boost mood, and spark new ideas, all while helping us feel more present in our bodies and surroundings. Making art outside doesn’t have to be complicated (or messy!) to be meaningful. A leaf, a stick and a little imagination can go a long way.
These mindful art ideas are perfect for curious grown-ups, wobbly toddlers, creative teens or anyone who fancies a peaceful moment under the (hopefully blue!) sky. Some are playful and energetic, others quiet and reflective. All are designed to help you gently reconnect.
Here are 10 creative outdoor ideas to try this summer:
1. Nature Mandalas
Gather leaves, petals, feathers or pebbles and create a mandala on the ground. Start in the centre, and add natural objects in concentric circles. It might be symmetrical, it might not. It’s a calming, meditative process and a beautiful reminder that not all art needs to last forever.
2. Painted Pebbles
A simple favourite! Collect smooth stones and paint them with patterns, words or tiny characters. Perfect for garden decorating or hiding on local walks - what a great way to give others a smile when they come across them!
3. Stick Weaving
Find two sturdy sticks and weave natural or colourful yarn between them. It’s like making a tiny loom in the woods. The process is slow and rhythmic - great for mindfulness. This also works with twigs that look like a Y! Pop the weaved twigs into a flower vase for instant texture and colour.
4. Shadow Drawing with Sunlight
Grab a piece of paper and place objects, plants, or your own hand, so the sun casts a shadow on the paper. Then trace around it. What would it be like to trace around the shadow just using one line, without removing your pen from the paper? You might choose to fill it in - how about colourful doodles in pencils, or having a play around with watercolour paints?
5. Mud Painting
Yes, actual mud! Let’s get back to being 4 years old. Mix earth with a little water and use twigs, leaves, or fingers as your tools. It’s grounding in the most literal sense. Paint onto paper or go full cave person and adorn the walls!
6. Bark & Leaf Rubbing
Use crayons and thin paper to capture the textures of trees and plants. Try layering different shapes and colours for a dreamy forest-inspired piece. How does holding the crayon differently change the outcome of the rubbing?
7. Leaf Stitching
A chance to really zone in and focus, because this is a delicate one! Find a leaf, grab a needle and thread, and get stitching. You might use a simple running stitch to create colourful lines, make words, or concentrate on the different parts of the leaf. Go slowly. If it breaks, make a feature of it!
8. Outdoor Watercolour Journaling
Settle somewhere peaceful with some art supplies and capture what you see - a flower, the sky, your picnic blanket. What about painting the sounds? Or the scents that are around? No pressure to make it ‘good’ - just be present and document your experience in a way that makes sense to you in that moment.
9. Cloud Drawing
Take yourself back to your childhood and lie down (or just gaze upwards) and study the clouds. Be curious. Find shapes, patterns or colours that inspire you and sketch them down using whatever materials you fancy. What happens if you draw them without looking at the page?
10. Make a Nature Colour Palette
Really take the time to notice the colours around you. It might look like a lot of green but I just know there will be so many different shades if you look closely! Create a colour palette from the combinations that attract you the most. Can you mix your own colours to match plants around you?
You don’t need fancy supplies, just a bit of curiosity and a willingness to play. Keep looking, keep going slowly.
Why Outdoor Art is Good for Your Wellbeing
Spending time outdoors while making art can help lower stress, lift your mood, and promote mindfulness. These creative nature activities support emotional wellbeing and offer a peaceful, screen-free way to enjoy summer - alone or with others.
You don’t need fancy supplies - just a bit of curiosity, an open mind, and the willingness to look slowly.
Happy summer creating 🌿
Eden