Engaging with Plants in a Changing Climate: How & Why to Create Local Medicine & Sustainable Color

Many medicinal plants also produce natural dyes. This program offers several ways to engage creatively with plants this summer. Options include: (1) first session hybrid with in-person classes (4 credits); (2) second session fully remote (4 credits); or (3) full session with both (8 credits)! Whatever you choose, you can identify plants, discover local resources, and explore safe, simple techniques to create herbal medicines and dyes in your kitchen. Through this, you will learn approaches to self-care and creative expression – including how to upcycle and revitalize your closet -- that increase community resilience and help protect the environment. Your studies can follow a faculty-created plan, we can create a plan together, or you can plan your studies independently. Whatever approach you take, you’ll receive ample support. Note that the program is appropriate whether you have previous experience or you’re just getting started, and whether you’re near or far. Variable credit is available, too, so you can expand your learning even further with additional independent study (up to 16 credits for the full session). Please contact faculty if you’re interested in any of the independent or variable credit options. What a wonderful way to enrich your summer!