John James Audubon was a French American artist and naturalist who, beginning in the 1820s, set out to document every bird species in the US. The result was 'The Birds of America,' a collection of 435 hand-painted bird prints widely regarded as one of the finest books ever published. This course explores Audubon's early life, artistic techniques, and the scientific and aesthetic value of his work. We will take a closer look at selected prints and examine the intersection of art and science in Audubon's process. We will have thoughtful discussion of his legacy and his role in shaping the American understanding of nature and wildlife.