Illustrate the Magic: Drawing Elwood at Reiman Gardens in Ames

AMES WORKSHOP FIELD GUIDE

Illustrate the Magic: Drawing Elwood at Reiman Gardens in Ames

A 90‑minute family workshop at Reiman Gardens where author Andrew Gogerty and illustrator Tim Read mix storytelling, live sketching, and a guided 'Draw With Me' session.

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Illustrate the Magic: Drawing Elwood at Reiman Gardens in Ames.

Duration
Contact operator
Location
Ames
Operator
Reiman Gardens
Category
Workshop
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Step into a magical corner of Reiman Gardens in Ames for a 90‑minute family workshop that pairs storytelling with live illustration. Author Andrew Gogerty and illustrator Tim Read recount how Elwood the gnome and his critter companions were imagined, demonstrate live sketches, and then lead participants—kids and adults alike—through a guided 'Draw With Me' session to take a little garden magic home.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE STORY

Behind-the-scenes with author and illustrator

Listen as the creator and the artist describe how character and story emerged from the garden: the session includes storytelling and the illustrator's commentary on personality and inspiration.

THE PROCESS

Live sketching: watch characters take shape

The illustrator sketches live, showing the line work and decisions that bring Elwood and his friends to the page—an inside look at turning observation into a storybook illustration.

THE HANDS-ON

Guided 'Draw With Me' family session

After the demonstration, participants join a step‑by‑step drawing session led by the illustrator so both children and adults can create their own renderings of Elwood and companions.

What the day feels like

What the workshop feels like

The event unfolds as a compact, intimate program: an author-led storytelling segment, an illustrator’s live sketch and commentary, then a hands-on guided drawing exercise. The rhythm is conversational and instructional—built for families and art lovers to watch, learn, and then try drawing themselves within the 90‑minute session.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this workshop suits best.

1
Families with childrenDescribed as 'perfect for families,' the workshop is structured so kids and parents can participate together in storytelling and drawing.
2
Art lovers and sketchersThe illustrator’s live sketching and behind-the-scenes commentary cater to people interested in illustration and the creative process.
3
Kids and adults learning to drawThe program explicitly guides 'kids and adults alike' through a step-by-step drawing activity, making it accessible to beginners.
4
Storybook and garden enthusiastsAnyone drawn to garden-themed stories or character-driven picture books will find the session aligned with those interests.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

What to Bring

Bring a pencil and your imagination—participants are invited to 'grab your imagination and a pencil' for the guided drawing portion.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

When is the workshop and how long does it last?

Saturday, July 18, 10:00–11:30 AM; the session runs 90 minutes.

Who leads the workshop?

Author Andrew Gogerty and illustrator Tim Read lead the program.

Where does the event take place?

At Reiman Gardens in Ames, Iowa.

Who is the workshop intended for?

It is presented as perfect for families and art lovers, with activities designed for both kids and adults.

What should participants bring?

Bring a pencil and imagination for the guided 'Draw With Me' session.

Do I need prior drawing experience to join?

No prior experience is required—participants are guided step-by-step during the drawing portion.