Batik is the ancient decorative art of creating designs on fabric using dyes along with a “resist” such as melted beeswax. The oldest known examples are on Japanese silk screens from the Sui Dynasty (AD 581-618). Today, batik is mostly associated with Indonesia, which maintains a vibrant culture of batik producers.

Kate’s experience and many years of painting in watercolor find new expression in batik.  Batik shares with watercolor the free flowing transparency of watercolor and the ability to layer colors.  The welcome contribution of wax to act as a resist to the flowing color, allows for a clear definition of space without sacrificing the freshness and looseness of watercolor.

Roosevelt Room – Q-80

Free for members; $5 guests at door img_2184

 

Workshop:   Creating Batik with Wax and Dye

In this workshop, the student will learn how to use traditional batik dyeing methods to create a contemporary, personalized work of art on cotton cloth. The workshop will focus on the following skill building processes:

Create a simple design that exploits the spontaneous and organic nature of batik.

Learn and practice the essential skill of creating a design that can be progressively dyed from lightest to darkest color.

Practice the skill of “painting” melted wax onto cotton to isolate your design from its background.

Tub dye your waxed design using Fiber Reactive dye and soda ash to create washable fabrics for wearable or decorative purposes.

The instructor will provide electric wax pots, dyes, fabrics, and all miscellaneous supplies. Students are advised to wear a smock or apron.

Activity Center – E-46

1:30 to 4:30 PM   3 hour workshop

Class size: 16 students

Mar 2017 supply list

 

$55 members, $70 guests   katewarthen-thefrogprince katewarthen_lovecatKateWarthen Owl2.jpg katewarthen-fox-smhydrangas