Wednesday, October 9, 2019, 4-6pm

Did you know that seaweed isn’t actually a plant, but a type of algae? These photosynthetic marine species share many of the characteristics of land plants, though, and we will use conventions of botanical illustration to carefully observe, draw and paint some local specimens. After practicing careful noticing in the Farnsworth Museum galleries, participants will be able to experiment with various watercolor techniques and substrates to create their own botanical(-ish) illustration. As we work, we will also discuss the natural history, anatomy, and uses of seaweed, which is an increasingly important segment of Maine’s economy. Participants are invited to try some edible seaweed as they work, and may take home handouts on seaweed identification and anatomy as well as botanical illustration.

Wednesday, November 20, 2019, 4-6pm

Investigate the art of encaustic painting while exploring the crow as subject! In this hands-on workshop using pigmented wax and a heated palette we will drip, pour, drag, layer, and explore this molten beeswax paint. The Farnsworth museum’s exhibition of Andrew Wyeth’s Witches, Ghosts and Mischief will serve as creative inspiration as we consider mood, composition, palette, and other artistic choices. In the studio, we will draw crows together and create stencils from them to create painterly works in this luscious ancient medium. A brief history of encaustic painting and adaptations to the classroom will be discussed.

Wednesday, December 18, 2019, 4-6pm

Snow date: Thursday, December 19, 2019

In this workshop, educators will examine a collection of Farnsworth seascapes to consider how “water” is represented within these compositions. How does the artist express movement and draw us into the work of art? Careful observations in the galleries will guide participants in the studio as they experiment with a variety of tools and techniques to create texture, distance, atmosphere and emotive marks using India ink.  Educators will create their own seascape and learn how to integrate this lesson into their classroom curriculum.

Wednesday, February 12, 2020, 4-6pm

Snow date: Wednesday, February 26

Mark making is the result or record of the body’s movement with materials in hand. With a focus on being present-minded, participants will develop an awareness of their body in space and explore their personal kinesthetic language through simple yoga, breathing, and meditation exercises that will inform their visual language of painting, drawing, and mark making. In the Farnsworth galleries, we will consider gestural works of art, and the use of space within a curated environment. Then, in a fun and supportive setting, participants will be introduced to a variety of physical and visual possibilities sure to inspire and invigorate a creative learning environment. No yoga, or art experience necessary, just a willingness to stretch the body, mind, and spirit.

Wednesday, March 18, 2020, 4-6pm

Snow date: Wednesday, March 25

Basketry is a global art form. The production of vessels for both functional and decorative use is a practice that exists throughout history, in cultural traditions all over the world. In this workshop, we will learn about local and global basketry practices, and view examples of woven artworks in the Farnsworth galleries.  We will address how basketry techniques are being used today to create contemporary works of art and how changes in our environment are affecting this rich art form. Participants will learn the basics of coiled basketry and will leave with a started project and the materials to complete their first vessel.

Wednesday, April 15, 2020, 4-6pm

Get the springtime energy flowing and create one-of-a-kind spring greetings.  In the Farnsworth galleries, we will consider the medium of collage and the idea of “curating” a composition.  Back in the studio, we will learn about the colorful world of ephemera and mail art. Participants will view examples of Rizzio’s own mailings, and be given example projects to create.  Spend an evening learning collage techniques to make the most unique cards. April mail art showers bring May time creative flowers!