Drawn to Birds: An Afternoon with Keith Hansen

Voices of Our Coast - Keith Hansen

Keith Hansen is a passionate bird artist and birder whose journey began in a creative home, where his talented mother, Janice, inspired her six children to appreciate the beauty in art and nature. From an early age, Keith was drawn to the world of birds, and in 1976, he began illustrating them during his senior year of high school—a decision that would shape the rest of his life.

Keith’s deep connection to birds comes from years of exploring California’s Central Valley, Sierra Nevada, and coast, as well as tropical regions like Mexico, Central America, and the Amazon. His work has been shaped by direct, hands-on experience, from observing birds in the wild to participating in banding studies, which have allowed him to understand their behavior, anatomy, and unique characteristics up close.

Over the years, Keith has illustrated everything from scientific journals to murals, and his works have been featured in major books like Birds of the Sierra Nevada. His latest book, Hansen’s Field Guide to the Birds of the Sierra Nevada, showcases over 1,200 meticulously detailed illustrations of bird species from this iconic mountain range.

When he’s not out birding, Keith runs The Wildlife Gallery in Bolinas, California, where visitors can explore his original artworks and prints. His work is more than just beautiful; it’s a window into the world of birds, captured with the love and respect that comes from a lifetime of observing and illustrating them.

Join us at Willow Camp for an unforgettable evening with Keith Hansen, a rare opportunity to hear stories from a life spent watching, studying, and drawing the winged world.

For those who’d like to spend more time with Keith and fellow guests, you’re warmly invited to join us for a cozy, catered dinner up at the Lodge following the talk. Space is limited and requires a separate reservation.

Info: Enjoy a catered dinner by wonderful local chef Lily Chait from Eating With Lily. www.eatingwithlily.com

Also check out other Arts events in Stinson Beach, Food & Drink events in Stinson Beach, Fine Arts events in Stinson Beach.