NEW!!  Encrustations:

Building Dimension and Texture

I love building up a surface with layers and layers of color, imagery, and material, whether it's a shrine or an acrylic painting/collage.   For years, I relied mostly on the use of actual objects to build up a surface (how many matchsticks does it take to cover a cigar box?) but there are a lot of other options out there.  I've been lucky enough over the past several years to take classes with folks like Bee Shay, Melissa Manley, and Jacqueline Sullivan - all of whom are experts on building up dimension and texture on a surface.   With this class, you get pieces of their wisdom - mixed up with some discoveries from me and local luminary Sister Diane - and filtered through my own unique perspective.

The next class starts Tuesday, November 18th, 2008 - Scroll down for details

Encrustations: Building Dimension & Texture
At DIY Lounge at Collage, 4429 SE Woodstock, Portland, OR
Register online at www.diylounge.com or call 503-804-2526
Tuesdays, November 18th and 25th, 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.
Cost $68, includes all materials

Make several small shrines or paintings, and learn a variety of ways to build up texture and create dimensional effects in the process – make flexible silicone molds and cast dimensional objects with PaperClay, and build up textures with papers, fabrics, and hardware store finds.  This class can take your painting and assemblage work into Super 3-D!

The first night we’ll learn to make quick-release silicone molds, cast PaperClay, and experiment with different ways of applying the shapes to your shrine or painting.  We’ll also cover other methods of building up interesting textures and shapes on an otherwise flat surface with everyday materials like cheesecloth, tissue paper, joint compound, foil, metal tape, and more.  On the second night, you’ll be able to work with the texture you’ve created, learning how to build up layers of color with acrylic paints that emphasize and enhance the textures. Add in your own found images and objects, and you’ll walk away with some wonderful works of art!  Many of these techniques can also be used with encaustic painting. 

All materials will be provided, though feel free to bring items that you think would make good impressions for casting – non-porous architectural elements, shells, detailed buttons, and jewelry work well!  And wear clothes that can get messy!