Discover the joy of making your own paints using local earth materials and ancient techniques in this hands-on workshop with Helen Coleman.
On day 1, participants will use grinding and levigation techniques to process a range of local earths, working with their own samples as well as Helen's curated collection. Then the magic happens on day 2 as these earth pigments are mulled with a range of natural binders to create smooth tempera, glair and gouache paints. The workshop also covers lightfastness of natural paints, paint-pan filling and local sources for various paint additives.
Students will have time to explore these paints as art mediums, creating swatches and artworks to take home along with workshop notes. This workshop is ideal for beginners to experienced artists who are keen to incorporate natural pigments in their practice.
As a contemporary colour woman, with an art practice devoted to process and scientific experimentation, Helen delights in unlocking the hidden colours in the natural world around us.
Tapping into a thirty-year career in botany and chemistry, Helen explores the artistic potential of local plant and earth materials. By blending ancient and contemporary techniques, these diverse samples are transformed into unique dyes, pigments, inks and paints.
Helen shares her research through exhibitions, workshops and residencies across Australia, inspiring artists and the broader community to connect more deeply with the natural environment through the creation of art made with local, natural materials.