Friday, October 17, 2008

Softly Spoken - 6 hour class
$145
Karyn Gartel

Student Level: beginner/intermediate

Description of Workshop:
Does the thought of picking up a paintbrush terrify you? Do you rely heavily on manufactured papers for your collage backgrounds? Are you looking for your own creative touch to add to your artwork? If you answered YES!! To any of these questions, this is a great workshop to get you kick-started on creating your own painted backgrounds. We will start the first portion of the workshop with some cool acrylic painting techniques for making a colorful background. Don’t be afraid if you have never attempted painting before because my techniques are fool proof and you will get great results. Even if you do manage to goof-up, I will show you how to fix it!

The second portion of the class will focus on creating mixed media collages that have a “softer side”. We will be working with copies of vintage photos, quotes, and adding our own whimsical touches. Discussion will cover the major principles of design including balance, contrast, proportion and more. We will also be experimenting with doodling and hand lettering…come on…be brave!! There is no wrong way to do it except not to do it all. We all struggle with our desire to do it “right” but first you have to give yourself permission to TRY IT!! By the end of the class you will leave with several finished backgrounds, basic knowledge of collage design, and even a finished piece or two depending on how quickly you work.

Kit Fee: $20
payable to the instructor at the BEGINNING of the workshop. Kit includes 1 full sheet of prepped 140 lb cold pressed watercolor paper, collage packet (includes vintage images, patterned papers, and ephemera), acrylic paints, assorted mixed media items (such as lace, buttons, ribbon), and use of instructor tools & stamps.

Supply List:
2 course bristled 1” paintbrushes
water container
heat gun or hairdryer
soft cloth (like an old washcloth)
gel medium (matte or glossy)
small selection of personal collage materials you like to work with.

If you have any questions about this workshop, feel free to contact me at gartel7@shaw.ca.
website: www.altered-diva.com