This is a unique opportunity to work with a new and versatile material. Cold porcelain is an air dry polymer clay that can be used for jewelry, sculpture and other crafts. There will be a demonstration on how to make cold porcelain from scratch using materials you likely have at home. During the class students will use the clay to create a variety of holly berries, snow berries and hypericum berries as well as greenery. We will discuss:
* how to properly cut and shape botanically correct leaves
*various ways to dry cold porcelain
*how to properly color clay and what paints to use
*how to arrange berries in a pleasing manner
*where to purchase cold porcelain tools and supplies
All tools and materials will be provided. Please bring your glasses if you have trouble with detail. Light refreshments will be available but it is recommended that you pack a lunch. Bring a shoebox to transport your berries home and wear light colored non-fuzzy clothing. And most importantly bring your enthusiasm!
AGES: 18+
ABOUT THE ARTIST:
Amanda Lewis is a botanical sculptor from Clarion PA. She was formally trained as a fine artist at the Columbus College of Art and Design and continued as a studio potter for 10 years. She eventually switched to “cold porcelain” when she discovered its ability to hold fine detail, something her stoneware lacked. This characteristic of cold porcelain was perfect for creating flower forms which she had been striving to create.
Cold porcelain is an air dry clay made primarily of cornstarch and glue and it has the appearance of real porcelain. The dried clay is not brittle but flexes slightly like hard plastic. It is water resistant but not completely water proof. Cold porcelain is a popular material in Japan, Thailand, South America, and Russia but few people have heard of it in the United States.
Trillium, Mt. Laurel, primroses, lily of the valley, sweet peas and more line up across her work table as she carefully cuts petals from thinly rolled clay. After drying she paints them and arranges them into bouquets, vignettes, and accessories. Amanda’s other interests- gardening and wild food foraging, have helped her in understanding structure and color unique to each flower. “Living in the PA Wilds has given me a great bounty of unique wild plants to study and work from which gives me a great satisfaction in sharing with others”.
Amanda’s flowers can also be seen on Etsy at PETALGallery.etsy.com, the Sawmill Center in Cook Forest, PA, the Kinzua Bridge Visistor’s Center, and the Kelly Green Bed and Breakfast in Tionesta, PA. You can follow her on Instagram@amcale8 or visit her website to learn more about this unique art form, sign up for a class, or schedule a studio visit petal.indiemade.com
REGISTRATION DEADLINE: October 23rd
You MUST pre-register to attend! Your spot is not reserved until payment has been received.
