Special Studies "Wabi-Sabi Art": Level 3

Create something personal and intriguing using materials that already hold a special meaning or that reminds us to slow down and enjoy life.

In this class, learn to add texture and meaning in our art using ephemeral, handmade papers, and found materials while embracing the Wabi-Sabi ideology.

Imperfection and accidents are something to be celebrated, not avoided. Incorporating more play and freedom into our process while honoring objects that get a ‘second life.’

The mixed media paintings we create will reflect the essence of the natural world—celebrating the raw, the weathered, and the authentically aged. We will allow ourselves to slow down and appreciate the simple things in life. Not pass by things easily overlooked.

Artists will be challenged to break free from a focus on precision. There’s a special freedom in Wabi-Sabi's abstract aesthetic. It is a forgiving approach that celebrates so-called mistakes and fosters an experimental spirit, encouraging artists to build up and tear back with abandon.

This is about art that values the authentic and aged over the new and perfect—often featuring muted, earthy colors, irregular shapes, and asymmetry.

Students will walk away with a set of four 12x12 mixed media paintings to cherish.

Supply List for Students to Bring:

This is a studio class and students will be using their supplies on the first week.

• Four 12x12 cradled wood panels
• Acrylic brushes of all sizes and paint colors you already have
• Acrylic inks in a couple colors (earth tones preferred)
• Glazing Liquid
• Soft Gel or Matte Medium
• Gesso, white
• Neocolonial II crayons in a couple colors (neutrals are versatile)
• Distress Oxide stamp ink pad (just one in black or an earth tone color)
• Silicone tools (like bowl scrapers and color shapers)
• Small sea sponge
• Sanding block, fine grain (like 180 or 200)
• Palette knife
• Palette paper
• Quality paper towels
• A $20 Materials Fee paid directly to the Instructor on Week 1 for providing additional supplies.