CLASSES, WORKSHOPS, & CIRCLES

$165

In this 5 hour encaustic class you will learn the basic set up of an encaustic station and how to safely work with the waxes and equipment,  how to build layers through a variety of fusing techniques, how to create texture through gouging, mark making, incising, and imprinting techniques, how to embed materials between the layers, basic photo transfers, and the use of the hot stylus tool. We will then go deeper and explore adding even more colour and imagery with pan pastels, stencils, and india ink.
All supplies and equipment included.  This workshop is perfect for beginners and advanced artists alike who are looking to explore the beautiful and spontaneous process of painting with beeswax, or anyone looking to expand their creative practice.  You will make several practice pieces and 1 wooden panel

Absolutely no artistic experience required

All supplies included 

$165

When we first begin to explore the art of encaustic painting, the wax flows in beautiful and often unpredictable ways.  This 5 hour class will look at the subtle ways in which the wax moves and the relationship between heat and outcome.  We will build on the techniques learned in Introduction to Encaustics and introduce new ways to create imagery, texture, and effect; such as filling lines with wax and oil, oil sticks, masking off areas, and a variety of stylus tips.  We will also get creative with eco-friendly stenciling and gold leaf.  We will spend some time mastering the encaustic iron, and take a few risks along the way. 

Introduction to Encaustics required.

Panels not included (max size of 16x20)

$120

When we enter into a state of 'flow', we enter a state of simultaneous deep relaxation and heightened focus and awareness.  Time becomes inconsequential and our mind makes creative connections as our sense of self-doubt evaporates.  Creating art is a wonderful way to enter into this meditative state of 'flow'.

We will begin each class with exercises designed to help us tap into our creative spirit, followed by several hours of encaustic painting in a shared, supportive and creative environment.

While the focus of this class is on process rather than technique, it is a wonderful opportunity to tap into the wealth of group experience as we help one another further develop the skills we have learned in past workshops and in our own artistic practices.  This class is designed to help us each elevate our own work while at the same time building networks and strengthening community.  

Previous encaustic experience required.

Panels not included (max size of 16x20)

"Only when he no longer knows what he is doing does the painter do good things".  Edgar Degas 

$275

Over the course of 2 days we will cover safety and general information about encaustic painting, how to set up a home studio and source supplies.  You will learn how to mix an encaustic palette, how to layer and fuse the wax, and how to embed objects between layers.  We will make marks and create texture through a number of techniques such as incising, imprinting, and scraping back layers.  We will cover basic photo transfers, the hot stylus tool, including the brush tip, pan pastels and india ink.  We will explore a variety of stencilling techniques such as using stencils with pan pastels, stencilling with wax, and how to get creative with eco-friendly stencilling.  Oil sticks and using oil paint, including how to fill lines will also be covered.  

No experience required. 

Panels not included (max size of 16x20)

You will work on several panels over the course of this class.

$535

Over the course of 4 days we will cover safety and general information about encaustic painting, hot to set up a home studio and source supplies.  You will learn how to mix an encaustic palette, how to layer and fuse the wax, and how to embed objects between layers.  We will make marks and create texture through a number of techniques such as incising, imprinting, and scraping back layers.  We will cover basic photo transfers, the hot stylus tool, pan pastels and india ink.  We will explore a variety of stencilling techniques such as using stencils with pan pastels, stencilling with wax, and how to get creative with eco-friendly stencilling.  Oil sticks, oil paint, and gold leaf will be introduced to highlight the effects of the wax.  Glazing, filling lines with oil and wax, and dry brushing techniques will also be covered.  We will also spend some time exploring how to mask off areas and how to master the iron.  

The 4 days will allow time for group instruction, individual guidance, and exercises designed to help us explore our unique creative processes, along with ample time on the griddles.  

No experience required.

Panels not included (max size of 16x20)

You  will  work on several panels over  the course of this class.

$22

Regardless of whether you are looking to gain insight into your own creative process, tap into the deep wisdom of collective knowledge, or you are wanting to discover the creative powers that lay dormant within you, talking circles are a powerful way to connect with yourself and with others.  

You do not need to be an artist or a 'creative' to participate in Circle; its is open to anyone.  Simply bring your curiosity.

Expect each Circle to be 2-3 hours long.  

$85

Needle felting is a deeply relaxing process where natural wool fibers are woven together using a specialized felting needle.  

This 3 hour workshop will teach you the basics of needle felting including working with various types of wool, blending colours, and building up layers on a flat surface.  Each participant will receive their own felting kit including wool, felting needles, a foam blocks, and a tapestry needle and thread. 

You will make 1 felted leaf during the workshop and have enough supplies to make an additional 2 leaves on your own. A large assortment of wool will be available to experiment with during the workshop. All supplies + materials will be provided. No experience necessary.

$65

This 2.5 hour workshop is pure colour and creative bliss. We will be  using wax resists  with watercolour and even a little bit of India ink as we dabble and dip into the charming delights of water and pigment.  

We will be working on small pieces of watercolour paper that will then be mounted onto 5x7 backing.  Each participant will leave with their own lovely little set of watercolour art cards perfect for framing or gift giving.

Note:  The focus on this class is on creativity and the creative process, not on watercolour techniques.  

$155

In this full day experience, we will explore the elements, crystals, and plant magic as we take a deep dive into our creativity and creative process.  

Part of the day will be spent in Circle as we tap into the power and collective wisdom of the group, as well as our own creativity and intuition.  The other part of the day will be spent using water and pigment to transport us to a place of pure creative bliss, and meditative ink drawing to centre and ground us.  

Each participant will leave with thier own original set of watercolour and ink art cards, as well as tools to help them tap into their creative potential moving forward.  The purpose of this experinece is on exploration and connectivity, not on artistic techique.  All supplies, as well as refreshments will be provided.  Absolutley no artistic experience necessary.  

$155

Wet felting is the process of creating wool fabric from wool roving, soap, and water.  This workshop workshop will teach you the fundamentals of this ancient process as you create your very own unique felted vessel using a resist and beautifully soft merino wool.

Please note that this workshop does require physical and repetitive motion.  Hands will be wet for much of the day that can result in dryness.  

Wool, soap, and resist is provided.  Please bring a white towel and 2 large pieces of bubble wrap.  

Not currently being offered 

Open Studio's are the perfect way to continue exploring the beauty and spontaneity  of painting in encaustic. Open Studio's are self-guided with no instruction and are open to those with previous encaustic/cold wax experience.  Supplies and equipment included*  Bring your own substrates (maximum size of 16x20)$20 per hour*some exceptions apply

Come and try your hand at encaustic painting! Instruction followed by 30 minutes of play.  You will then have a chance to finish up your piece and polish it to a high shine.  No experience necessary.  Ages 5 and up. Children under 12 must be accompanied by a parent. 

This service will resume soon. 

 $25/person

$39/mthWant to try out encaustic painting, but don't want to commit to a full set up on your own just yet?  An equipment rental might be the perfect solution.  Your rental includes a griddle, and encaustic iron, and a heat gun.  

Not currently being offered 

I offer discounted rates on many of my services for non-profits and charitable organizations. Please don't hesitate to reach out and talk to me about how I might be able to help your organization.
Some exceptions apply.  

 I love working with all kinds of people and have taught workshops throughout the province.  Reach out if you are interested in bringing a workshop or Circle to your space or if you want to talk about customizing an experience for your group.