Manetti Shrem Museum Artist-Led Workshops

For the first time, this summer you can work with master-artists to experiment with new techniques inspired by exhibits in the Manetti Shrem Museum.

July 21: Drawn from Nature
Artist: Faith Sponsler (UC Davis MFA 2017)

Learn to make natural inks from oak galls and other natural materials. Use these inks to sketch and draw as Faith leads you on a ramble through the Arboretum. She will share her creative process and encourage you to find yours through a series of experimental drawing prompts. Participants each receive two jars of handmade ink to take home. Bring a picnic!

July 28: Cyanotype Lab
Artist: Arielle Rebek (UC Davis MFA 2017)

Learn about the history of cyanotype and then visit the exhibition Andrea Chung: You broke the ocean in half to be here where you’ll see how this contemporary artist uses cyanotypes to tell her story. Then head into the Carol and Gerry Parker Art Studio to experiment with this magical medium. You’ll experience the entire process from preparing the materials to fixing and toning the final image. Play with your own nature-inspired images on both paper and fabric.

August 4: Abstract Responses to Nature
Artist: Angela Willetts (UC Davis MFA 2016)

Try a new take on plein-air painting! Begin with a visit to Susan Swartz: Breaking Away, 2006 -2018 where you’ll see how this artist abstracts the natural landscape. Then immerse yourself in natural environments as you explore abstract responses to nature in the Arboretum. You’ll experiment with paint application and intuitive mark-making: dripping, wiping, glazing, spilling and layering to capture the infinite energy and texture of the natural world.