Cyanotype – Laura Kochevar (2 hours)
Learn to use the power of the sun to make prints on several substrates. In addition to the usual fabric and paper, we will make prints on wood and stone. Participants will come away with several finished projects and ideas on how to make more. Also discussed will be a similar medium, sunprinting, which makes prints via both sun and heat.
Santorini Stone Painting – Sara Gentry (2 hours)
Santorini stone is a strikingly white and sparkling natural stone. Mined in Greece, it is often cut and polished for construction and landscape purposes. Its smooth and sparkled surface also make it a uniquely wonderful canvas for painting! Other types of beautiful stones will also be available to provide options.
Gelatin Plate Printing – Sally Walsh (2 hours)
You may have dabbled in printmaking with a linoleum block and ink, but have you thought about printing with gelatin? Join this workshop to learn more about the printmaking process without the harmful toxic chemicals. During the class, learn different forms of printmaking, the importance of working with non-toxic materials, positive & negative images, and the basic principles of design and color. Explore the beauty of nature at Allerton Park by creating wonderful prints inspired by it.
Beaded Brooches – Pat Howard (2 hours)
This fun jewelry project will combine colored stones, glass beads, and wire wrapping to create a unique fashion brooch. Participants will explore design elements, color combinations, and wire techniques in this class. Your finished brooch will be complete with pin backing ready to wear!
Canvas Painting – Belinda Beccue (2 hours)
Be inspired by woodland, prairie, formal gardens, sculpture, plants, animals and birds and create a painting on canvas. Participants will explore a variety of painting techniques using acrylic paint to capture a unique quality of Robert Allerton Park.
Felt Scarf Making – Laura Kochevar (4 hours)
Felt is the oldest textile, thought to pre-date weaving. Learn this ancient technique of making fabric with just unspun wool, soapy water and elbow grease! You will also learn how to incorporate decorative elements, such as yarn, fibers and sheer silks. Participants will come away with a finished scarf, as well as a test sample piece that can be used as a trivet or hotpad.
Weaving – Belinda Beccue (2 hours)
Create weavings on cardboard looms or tree branches using a variety of yarns and textural elements. We will discuss color theory and using complimentary colors in the weaving design process. Various techniques taught will include tabby, basketweave, soumak, rya knot and tapestry. Completed weavings can be finished as wall hangings or pillows.
Candle Painting – Olivia Bunting (2 hours)
Create a new type of decoration that you can take home to add to your decor. Participants will receive a large white votive candle and use melted tea light candles of various colors to paint designs around the outside of the candle. Make it holiday-themed, or paint designs that would work for a year-round decoration.
Flower Casting – Jennifer Anderson-Cruz (2 hours)
During this workshop, attendees will learn how to make botanical bas-relief castings using real plants, clay, and plaster.
Pen and Ink Drawing – Sally Walsh (2 hours)
This workshop will introduce you to the art of pen and ink drawing by using nature as your inspiration. Create a study of a landscape or close-up view of nature to make something unique.
Learn more and register for the Art Retreat here.
