Introduction to Natural Inks with Helen Coleman

In this 5 hour hands-on workshop, participants will learn how to capture the colours of nature, by creating natural inks from local plants.

Cost: $75
Venue: Arts Hub (Corner of Doney and Garfield St, Narrogin)
Register: Book directly with the artist, via Eventbrite HERE. If you need a hand with booking online, we’re happy to help you at Arts Space.

About this workshop

In this one day, introductory workshop, Helen Coleman will guide you through the process of extracting colours from locally sourced, sustainably harvested plant materials, to create your own natural inks.

Techniques that will be explored include extraction of pigments with water and alcohol, colour range extension using mordants and modifiers, record-keeping and lightfast testing.

Students will have time to explore the artistic potential of natural inks, creating test swatches then manipulating the inks to create their own unique layered artworks.

At the end of the workshop Helen will give a demonstration of the lake pigment process, where natural inks and dyes can be converted to water-insoluble pigments for use in paints.

All materials are supplied and students will take home workshop notes, ink samples and artworks created during the workshop. Morning and afternoon tea is provided but students will need to bring their lunch (fridge space is available).

The workshop will be held at the Arts Narrogin workshop space, on the corner of Doney and Garfield St, Narrogin.

Your facilitator:

Helen Coleman is a contemporary colourwoman, with an art practice devoted to process and experimentation. Drawing on a thirty year career in botany and chemistry, she explores plant and earth pigments in the biodiversity hotspot that is southwest Western Australia. Blending ancient and contemporary techniques, these pigments are transformed by her hands into unique dyes, pigments, inks and paints.

Covid considerations:
If, due to Covid restrictions, you are unable to attend or this event is cancelled then a full refund will be made. Please be prepared to wear masks during the workshop and show proof of vaccination, depending on mandatory requirements for the venue. Further information will be provided prior to the event.