Inspired by the impending arrival of autumn and the Fall Calligraphers' Retreat (September 25, 26, 27), I am designing a unique journal kit for the participants at this retreat being held at Camp Huston (click for interactive map) near Gold Bar, Washington. The coordinator for the weekend is Flo Wilkins, who has entitled the retreat Capturing Moments. Below this photo of my work-in-progress on the kit, I'll write a bit more on what and how I'll be teaching there. There may be a couple of spots left to fill our maximum group of 32; contact Flo below. You may also email me for curriculum questions.
In this snapshot you can see my sketches for a folded case made of cotton paper to be immersion-dyed with tea. On top are the finished template and dyed samples, plus one of my small watercolor paintings of autumn leaves (splendid subjects for small journal pages!). Coordinating loose pages will be cut and dyed to create a portfolio journal for those who wish to work in this format. In short sessions throughout the weekend, we'll practice small-scale sketching, calligraphy, page design, handwritten journal notation and decorative embellishing as we observe and record our findings and experiences in this natural setting. No pressure, no class critiques ~ this will be a time for you to observe, learn, refresh.
This retreat is traditionally a place where one can participate in the presenter's curriculum or not. Some attendees take personal projects that have begged for undivided attention not available at home. Some participate in part of the instruction, and also work independently, hike the trails along the Wallace River, or catch up on reading. I will have enough kits for the whole group. I'm looking forward to teaching, journaling, visiting, eating and hiking together, rain or shine! For registration information and a supply list, please contact Flo Wilkins at pawsnpens@hotmail.com.
Surrounded by natural beauty, Camp Huston in autumn color will be the ideal place to learn or refresh confidence in quick sketching skills. Incorporating sketches, light watercolor (or colored pencil) and casual lettering, we'll compose small journal pages that reflect observations and thoughts of our retreat home. Recording artfully in this way affirms the quieter meaning of our daily lives. JC
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