Gain the tools to make a color palette from naturally-sourced pigments and make a series of artwork with wax resists on paper by creating several different natural dye baths. Students will learn about the fascinating history of natural pigments and how they relate to many cultures worldwide, ways to ethically source and procure pigments from both local and international sources, how to make an indigo vat with a focus on chemistry, and about mordants and lightfastness. Emily will guide students to create a series of landscape inspired work through multiple layers and colors. Students are asked to bring the following supplies Apron or clothing that can get messy Sketchbook Rubber or latex gloves Dust mask One set of inexpensive, natural bristle brushes ranging in size from ½” to 3” flat. Blicks sells a nice choice of bristle brushes for large ones. These brushes will be used in wax which tends to remain in the bristles forever. Spray bottle for water One roll of absorbent paper towels Optional: containers with a tight fitting lid to take home leftover dyes after the class Your supply fee will cover the following supplies Rives BFK Printmaking Paper 300 gsm 4 sheets @ 15” x 20” and 1 @ 30” x 40” 50 sheets of blank newsprint @ 16” x 24” blank newsprint 25 sheets of drawing paper @ 15” x 20” Bleached white beeswax Batik wax Indigo Vat (my homegrown variety ) Indigo + calcium Hydroxide (pickling lime) + THiox Natural pigments: yellow, cochineal and madder root (reds) 2 dye baths Mordants and supplements, including Aluminum Acetate, Soda Ash and Citric Acid
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