EDIT: I've just been told the schedule won't go LIVE until Tuesday, Nov.18.
Today, the Valley Ridge Art Studio site goes live with the schedule of classes for 2009. Lots of terrific offerings for the year ahead. I have spoken about this venue before (May '08, Oct '07 and Aug '05) – it really is the most magical place. VRAS is in rural Wisconsin, near Madison. The studio is fab – you get your own table, it is filled with light (and supplies!) …the lunches are delicious, and the students that gather totally rock! Kathy and Bill are the enthusiastic hosts who make the magic. You will love them, you will love the place, you will count the days until you get to go back. Go take a look at all the instructors and their workshops. Treat yourself to a weekend of creativity. Classes fill fast, as does the limited space to stay on the compound.
Registration begins on December 15th, 9:00 A.M. Central Standard Time.
STAIRWAY TO HEAVEN: A fascination with architecture and a love of pattern spawned Michelle's interest in Byzantine imagery — with the deep, rich colors found in the religious icons, shrines, and cathedrals and the recurring use of arches and domes. With a nod toward Byzantium, learn to paint papers using layers of repetitive motifs, then the use the papers to build a triptych book.
The structure will have its own architectural appeal and with a few simple steps (pun intended), we will add a pull-down stairway. When propped open, your book doubles as a shrine. We will manipulate the pages with cutouts and dimensional elements to create visual pathways across the pages, in addition to any content you want to incorporate. Using tools we make in class, each book will have its own personality.
Your book structure will be completed in the workshop, but you may find yourself continuing to add details in the following days at home with this program's provided kit including paper, templates, binding, embellishments, and tricks for making patterns. The color palette you work with will be your choice. Use a tapestry of jewel tones or work in the subtleties of neutrals like white and gold.
For more information, supply list, and registration fees, see www.valleyridgeartstudio.com
I know, it's still eleven months away….I'm counting….but the sign-up is only a month away. Hope to see you there!
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