Exploring the World with Roseann and Jonathan Hanson: A Journey Through Overlanding, Field Arts, and Their New Magazine

For over four decades, Roseann and Jonathan Hanson have been at the forefront of overlanding, blending their passions for exploration, writing, and the visual arts into a life of adventure that spans continents. Born and raised in Southern Arizona, this dynamic duo has spent their lives pursuing their endless curiosity, exploring the world through writing, nature journaling, field arts, and, of course, overlanding.

A Life of Adventure and Exploration

Roseann and Jonathan’s journey began in the deserts of Arizona, where they first met and married while studying at the University of Arizona. Their love for the natural world and fieldwork led them to careers as biologists, writers, and photographers. Over the years, they’ve worn many hats, from resident naturalists and caretakers in Arizona’s Baboquivari Mountains to leading safaris in Africa and overland journeys across five continents.

Their deep connection to overlanding began long before the term became popular. Jonathan’s 1973 FJ40 Land Cruiser, a vehicle he’s owned since 1977, has been a faithful companion on countless adventures. The Hansons have traveled the world in their Land Cruiser Troopy, exploring remote regions from the tip of South America to the Arctic Circle. Their love for independent exploration and their dedication to the overlanding community led them to found Overland Expo, now a cornerstone event in the global overlanding scene.

A Literary Legacy: The Hansons’ Books

In addition to their overland adventures, Roseann and Jonathan are prolific writers, with a body of work that reflects their passion for the natural world and exploration. Their co-authored and individual books have inspired many to explore, learn, and connect with nature. Here are some of their most notable titles:

Southern Arizona Nature Almanac: A seasonal guide to the incredible diversity of the desert Southwest, packed with fascinating insights into the natural rhythms of the region.

Basic Essentials: Animal Tracking: A guide to understanding and identifying animal tracks, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking to deepen their connection with wildlife.

Desert Dogs: Explores the fascinating lives of the Southwest’s wild canines—kit foxes, coyotes, gray foxes, and endangered Mexican wolves—dispelling myths and offering an insightful, richly illustrated look at their sophisticated social systems and survival skills.

The Ragged Mountain Guide to Outdoor Sports: This comprehensive guide won a national book award for its coverage of outdoor sports and activities.

50 Common Reptiles and Amphibians of the Southwest: This book earned a National Park Service award for Interpretive Excellence, offering readers detailed information about the region’s most common reptiles and amphibians.

Nature Journaling for a Wild Life and Master of Field Arts: (by Roseann Hanson): These guides introduce readers to the art of nature journaling and field arts, providing tools and inspiration for capturing the natural world in sketches and notes.

Jonathan also collaborated with Tom Sheppard on the reprint of the seminal Vehicle-dependent Expedition Guide.

Launching Exploration Quarterly: A New Adventure

In 2023, Roseann and Jonathan embarked on a new venture with the launch of  Exploration Quarterly, a magazine for those who, like them, are endlessly curious about the world. The magazine’s tagline, inspired by T.S. Eliot, reflects their philosophy: “We shall not cease from exploration, and the end of all our exploring will be to arrive where we started and know the place for the first time.”

Exploration Quarterly is a celebration of exploration in all its forms, with regular features on expeditions, overland adventures, cartography, classic gear, field arts, and more. The Hansons’ goal is to inspire readers to explore the world around them, both near and far, and to cultivate a deep appreciation for learning and discovery.

Nature Journaling and Field Arts: A Creative Exploration

One of the unique aspects of the Hansons’ approach to exploration is their emphasis on nature journaling and field arts. These practices involve capturing the beauty and intricacies of the natural world through writing, sketching, and painting, often with simple tools like pen, ink, and watercolor. Roseann’s books, Nature Journaling for a Wild Life and Master of Field Arts, serve as guides for those looking to document their own journeys in a meaningful way.

Overlanding and field arts are a perfect match, offering a way to slow down and savor the moments of discovery that come with travel. For the Hansons, there’s nothing better than ending a day of exploration by sketching a landscape or writing about the day’s experiences.

Tips for Aspiring Overlanders

For those new to overlanding, the Hansons offer a simple piece of advice: just go. While gear and equipment can enhance the experience, the true essence of overlanding lies in the journey itself. They encourage travelers to embrace the unknown, take spontaneous detours, and discover the joy of exploration.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Exploration

With decades of experience behind them, Roseann and Jonathan show no signs of slowing down. They’re already planning content for Exploration Quarterly well into the future and are excited to launch new workshops and events in the coming years. In 2025, they plan to introduce special Field Camps for subscribers, small, community-focused gatherings reminiscent of the early Overland Expos.

Whether leading workshops, writing, or exploring new landscapes, the Hansons remain dedicated to inspiring others to explore the world with curiosity and creativity. As they continue their journey, they invite readers and fellow explorers to join them in discovering the endless possibilities of the world around us.

For more information on their work and upcoming events, visit their website at Exploring Overland.