2-days, June 11 & 12, 10:00-3:30 PM
Workshop Instructor: Laura Bethmann
The ancient art and science of nature printing stirs our kinship with the earth and charges our creative energies. Widely practiced for centuries by botanists, herbalists and artists, including luminaries Leonardo da Vinci and Ben Franklin, this direct printing process isn’t well known today. Explore the intricacies of leaves, flowers and fruits to create beautiful artwork direct from nature herself.
Laura Bethmann, artist and author of Hand Printing From Nature, will share the fascinating history and uses of nature printing and demonstrate basic techniques plus some that she has developed. Participants will create life-size, intricate images of nature and explore ways to integrate this ancient practice with their current artwork style.
Day 1: Laura will discuss and demonstrate the art and science of nature printing fresh botanicals and fruits with inks and watercolor. Participants will practice nature printing techniques and create some initial compositions in preparation for Day 2. Many examples of Laura’s work and references will be displayed as examples. Bring your preferred substrates to class: smooth drawing paper, watercolor paper and/or
canvas.
Day 2: We will integrate the images made on Day 1 with drawing, painting and/or collage. Laura will discuss and demonstrate her working methods with mixed media. Still life objects and patterns will be available to work from, or bring your own items, sketches, references.
Bring your nature prints from Day 1, also sketch pad, tracing paper, paints, pencils, collage supplies or whatever supplies and references you might use in class.
Materials provided by instructor for additional fee: individual kits containing the inks she uses to make nature prints, dabbers, mixers; also a palette for inks, practice papers, fresh botanicals and fruits, brochure with nature printing information and resource list.
Materials fee per person: $20 for nature printing supplies. (This cost is not included in pricing)
(I can provide a list for participants to purchase nature printing inks and supplies from manufacturer for whoever prefers.)