Introduction to Natural Dyes: Scour, Mordant + Beyond!
Adult Intensive | Available
In this hands-on class, you'll learn essential natural dye techniques, including how to scour, mordant protein and cellulose fibers, immersion dye, and how to mix mordant paste for painting and printing designs on fabric. By the end of the weekend, you'll have a collection of dye samples and custom-patterned fabric, perfect for use in quilting or personal projects. This class is ideal for all levels interested in diving into the world of natural dyes!
Accessibility notes: Many artmaking processes require the ability to sit or stand for extended periods of time, fine motor skills/finger dexterity, repetitive motions, vision, and some amount of physical strength. VisArts values making classes accessible to everyone, and is always happy to work with students to make accommodations when possible. Please reach out to info@visarts.org with specific questions related to accessibility or accommodations.
Classes are confirmed one week prior to the start date. In order to help us confirm classes, please register as early as possible.
Alex Foster
Alex Foster is a fiber-based artist, living and working in Richmond, Virginia. Foster uses natural dyes and printing with plants on fabric to better understand the natural world. They received a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Fibers and Material Studies from James Madison University in 2015. A deep love for fabric has led them to work as a studio assistant for Aya Fiber Studio in Stuart Florida, an internship as a costume stitcher for the American Shakespeare Center, and two work-study fellowships at Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts. Foster has exhibited artwork in cities across Virginia. They recently taught a natural dye workshop at Fiddlehead Farm and Apothecary and an Indigo+Shibori workshop at Studio Two Three in Richmond.