Plein Air Painting in Soft Pastels
Kay Brathol-Hostvet

As summer winds down and the subdued splendor of autumn begins, working in plein air at Whispering Woodlands is a true joy.  Pastel is perfect for depicting the various textures and warm colors of the landscape and is a very portable medium so it is ideal for plein air work.  We will use the studio as our home base, but head outside to work directly from nature.  Kay will demonstrate several techniques that are especially helpful for outdoor work.  You will complete two small paintings that can be used as studies for larger studio works or might stand alone as plein air masterpieces!  Previous pastel or other painting experience is recommended. If bad weather, we will work in the studio from photographs or a nature-inspired still life.  Paper will be provided; a supply list will be sent to you.  Class size limit: 10

Contemporary Encaustics  Jenny Learner 

As an Introduction to Encaustics - We'll start with a brief history of the medium and the artists who have been inspired by encaustic painting.  Learn why the revival and new enthusiasm in today's art.  Safety, palettes, brushes, supports, tools, paint, and medium will all be discussed.  Students will explore techniques demonstrated on small boards and watercolor paper. Each student should bring 4, 6" sample boards to try these techniques. See supply list on Workshop Supply List page.

Demonstrations and discussions to be covered over the weekend will include; fusing methods, painting, glazing, surface textures, scrafitto, marks, transfers, collage, mono-printing, stenciling, encaustics and oil sticks.No experience necessary - both beginners and experienced artists welcomed. 

Jenny has agreed to step in and hold this workshop as Margaret needed to cancel unexpectantly , with our thanks...

 Sat/Sun Sept 12/13 Sat 10-4, Sun 10-2  $240/45 materials

A Proclivity For Creativity  Amy Climer

Spirits of Nature   

               Ann Marie Waterhouse

We will spend time outside learning how to shift consciousness to learn from nature spirits: trees, animals, plants, the elements, etc. Some specifics include: finding power spots in nature, noticing the gifts or insights that come from these spots, working in partners to help each other find answers to questions, learning to do a rattle "journey" in nature, and finding a plant or tree you are drawn to and interact with it.   Prior shamanic journey experience is helpful, but not required for this workshop; if you can sit quietly and/or meditate you will be able to gain more insights from this workshop experience.  Contact Ann Marie at 608/837-7558 or eagleforth@charter.net for more information about the workshop experience.

Please bring:  A cushion or blanket you can use outside, journal and pen or pencil, and a drum and rattle if you have them.

Sat. Sept 19  9 - 4   $90

Interactive Art Workshop C

Kim Rae Nugent

When we read a novel our senses are activated through our imagination. Through an artist's eyes we are treated to visual imagery in a picture book.  But an interactive book is "hands on" beckoning it's viewer to participate in the story. As a child Kim was fascinated with how interactive books worked and she still is. Pulling tabs, spinning circles, lifting flaps, touching textural images, how fun! However, it is always more enjoyable to try and recreate the mechanism with your own art. Interactive techniques don't need to be limited to children's art. Some of it can be quite sophisticated in style and message.

The base upon which you create an art book will explore the following skills: color theory; working with a limited palette; composition; and background techniques. To add movement to your art: continuous image; circle flip; brad pivot; and tabs will be among the interactive techniques incorporated. Quotes and embellishments can be added as time permits. The nature of this type of interactive art lends itself well to themes of movement, change, and journeys. Artists of all skill levels are welcome!

   Sat/Sun Sept 26 & 27  10 - 4:30  $190/15 materials

Golden Paints Demo/Lecture Bonnie Cutts

Bonnie Cutts      

 
Golden's new Digital Grounds allow you to print images on a variety of porous and non-porous surfaces that you can run through an inkjet printer. Sound amazing? It is. In this class we will cover working with unusual surfaces you can print on with an inkjet printer and explore ideas for incorporating these printed images into collages and mixed media artwork. Work with wonderful combinations of acrylic materials in unique applications. A great way to generate new ideas for the adventurous painter. An inkjet printer will be available for scanning images and making prints.

Oct 3 & 4    Sat 9:30-4:30   Sun 9:30-3  $225/25 materials

Monoprint & Pressure Printing

Ben Rinehart

With these direct and spontaneous forms of relief printmaking, participants will gain hands-on experience in all phases of creating a multi-colored one-of-a-kind print. You will make a variable edition as well as unique prints that may be used in a multitude of ways. The class will focus on how to design an image, mix ink, additive/subtractive methods, stenciling, and execute the printing process using both water and oil based inks. You will learn how to print from the etching press and also by hand, allowing you to work at home with ease. All levels welcome!

Sat/Sun Oct. 10 & 11   $220/20 materials

Creative Play  Amy Climer

A Retreat for Women Living with Heart Disease

lead by Bonnie Schmidt

Can our hearts be a source of inspiration and wisdom? What has your heart told you so far? How loudly did it speak?  When your heart speaks, do you listen? Do you hear words, phrases, feelings, physical sensations?

Join other heart sisters in a light-hearted retreat that will explore quieting our minds and listening to our hearts. We will engage in activities that help us live in a more mindful and life-affirming way and that nourish our physical well-being.

Oct 22/23   Thurs evening  7 - 9   Fri  9 - 4   $65

*Please click below for instructions and registration form*

Fabric Dyeing

Amy Climer

Splash into the world of fabric dyeing. Explore how to safely perform immersion dyeing, dip dyeing, overdyeing, painting, and shibori techniques to create beautiful, vibrant, custom fabrics. A great hands-on class for quilters, fiber artists, creators of custom, wearable art, or anyone with an interest in dyeing cotton or silk. You will leave this class with the skills and knowledge to continuing dyeing and experimenting at home. Materials fee includes dyes and chemicals. Students supply fabric and personal supplies. This course is messy! Wear appropriate clothing.

Oct 24 & 25  Sat 10 - 5,  Sun 1 - 4  $175/10 materials