Wednesday, March 9, 2016

Polymer Clay: A New Way at Art on the Farm, 2016


In announcing my Art on the Farm workshops for 2016, I’m naming them ‘Polymer Clay: A New Way’ for two reasons. Not only am I teaching a surface design and coloring approach to polymer—as I have before—but I’m employing a new method this year for students to use to discover their own style. I’m also seeking to learn more about each student—their experience, artistic preferences and expectations-- before they come to my studio, using a ‘tell me about yourself’ survey so I can plan the class structure to be more effective. I don’t teach single techniques so I don’t want students to be disappointed that they don’t go home with a completed ‘project’. There are plenty of tutorials online and other workshops at bead shows and polymer retreats that do that. That’s not how I teach. People have seen the constant evolution of my style in polymer and they want to learn how to do that in their own work. They also want to learn how to move on from artistic blocks and how to turn their vision of their own style into reality.
"Terrazzo" earrings - polymer veneer with Pan Pastels, acrylics and crayons
 
"Blood Moon" pendant - Polymer veneer with Pan Pastels, acrylics, layered and textured
 On the first day we cover form and how to transform and personalize shapes with texture, layers and morphing. Day 2 covers surface techniques— textures, veneers, applied surfaces and molding. The last day covers color methods, types of products and their uses and how they act in combination with each other. We also cover attachments and how they inform the design process.
Valentine's Day pin - polymer veneers with Pan Pastels, acrylic paints

"Summer in the City" earrings - polymer clay, acrylics

If all this sounds rigorous, it is-- but it’s also a kick-butt load of fun! I think problem-solving and creating from a personal vision is the best kind of artistic stimulation and doing it in the company of other creatives is life-changing and is meant to send you home with a super jolt of inspiration and energy to kick-start your own creative process and projects.
 
"Point Reyes" necklace - polymer clay, acrylics, wire

Multi-layer beads-- polymer clay, oil paints, acrylics
 
Even if you’re not familiar with polymer, this workshop will work for you. I’ve worked with metal artists, wire designers, potters and painters. This method works for anyone delving deep into the creative process with a yen to discover their own style. I’m giving you a foundation process to take home and keep improving and growing. I want you to play, experiment, explore and have insights into how to work and expand ideas into new, exciting areas.
If this sounds like something you've been looking for and feel you’d benefit from, visit my website www.storiestheytell.com and click on "Workshops" to view the registration information.

Art on the Farm – May 25-27, 2016 in Braintree, VT

Dates in Fall, 2016 TBA