My Artful Heart Mixed-Media Assemblages

If you enjoyed my recent article in Cloth Paper Scissors, then you're going to LOVE this class!  Join me and see firsthand how to transform a plain, boring white canvas into a marvelous mixed-media work of art.

Together we will explore a variety of ways to create texture and depth.  Participants will work with various materials including tissue paper, gesso, paint, chipboard, and 3-dimensional objects.  Through experimentation and play, we will learn to build layer upon layer to achieve a rich and complex composition.  Students will leave with at least one finished piece of artwork on canvas, ready to hang or give as a gift.  In addition, individuals will take home a myriad of sketches in various stages of completion on watercolor paper.  Your creations in this class will be sure to make your heart skip a beat!

(suggested class length: 6 hours)

Sacred Object Totems

A totem is any entity which watches over or assists a tribe, clan, family, or individual.  In modern times, totems have increasingly come to be viewed as “personal spirits” which have special meaning and power for their owners.

In this memorable class, we will create our own totems - intended to guide and safeguard our paths.  This will be the perfect opportunity to use and showcase that precious found object you’ve tucked away for just the right project.  Students will learn how to construct the body of their totem entirely from scratch.  Together we will play with paper, paint, wire, waxed linen thread, wood, and found objects.  I’ll share my favorite techniques for turning something new into a delicious antique.  And we’ll trouble-shoot a variety of ways to arrive at an integrated assemblage.  You’ll leave with a home worthy of your most prized possessions as well as your own personal spirit guide for this journey called life.

(suggested class length: 6 hours)

The Totally Tricked-Out Tissue Box

Are your bored with the ho-hum and everyday?  Want to spice up your decor and bring a smile to your face?  Then this is the class for you!

Come and create a fun and funky, totally tricked-out tissue box!  Learn how to construct your very own tissue box completely from scratch.  (This clever structure also lends itself well to endless future container possibilities.)  Once assembled, we will cover our boxes and experiment with a fabulous technique that delivers a rich, distressed background in no time.  Fun and innovative ideas for layering, collage, and embellishment will be presented.  Learn how to achieve harmony in this multi-dimensional art piece in order to get the perfect result.  Each creation promises to be both unique and fun.  The sky is the limit here... nothing is too outrageous!  Students will leave with one or possibly two completed tissue boxes (depending on how quickly you work), ready to add flavor and whimsy to any room.

(suggested class length: 6 hours)

Web of Intrigue Tapestry Journal

If you've always wanted to learn how to make your own handmade books, now is the time!  Join me to create a beautiful, one-of-a-kind journal.  We will cover the exterior of our books in a fabric of your choosing.  A window carved into the front will be filled with a delicate web of embroidery floss, partially obscuring the treasures within.  Students will learn how to construct the interior of the book using sturdy, 140# Wausau paper interspersed with vellum - thereby increasing the intrigue on every page.  The spine will be embellished with a glorious riot of ribbons, fibers, beads, and charms.  Each student will leave with a completed journal - ready to fill with your art, your words, and your very soul.

(suggested class length: 3 hours)