Mixed media textiles with Helyne Jennings

Ref: S3D31648

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About this course

Create a series of experimental mixed media techniques on fabric and paper, exploring processes, texture and surface that can be combined with hand and machine stitch to create an abstract artwork.

Course Description

This is an experimental textile course to create an original artwork using mixed media, and it is not, therefore, suitable for practical use. During the course, you will experiment on fabrics and paper using acrylic paints, dyes and inks, learn basic block printing, how to apply gold and silver foils and to use felting techniques to add texture and colour.

You do not need any prior skill or knowledge of the materials or processes involved in this course to be able to achieve exciting and inspiring results that can easily be replicated without the need for major equipment or a bespoke studio space.

You will produce a library of handmade surfaces that will form the basis of a piece of textile art, employing more processes of layering, fragmenting and assemblage using hand stitching and free-motion embroidery. The work created can be a wall piece or take on a sculptural form, depending your own interests and inspiration.

On the first evening, after supper, we will go to the studio, so everyone can find their workspace. This is a wonderful opportunity to meet each other, to break the ice and for you to put forward any expectations, hopes or concerns you may have and to share the ideas or examples that you have brought along for discussion. When introductions are over, you will make a start and prepare some ideas for the next morning.

If you wish to continue working in the workshop throughout the evenings, this is possible until 9pm when the studio will be closed.

Timetable

Arrival Day - this is the first date listed above

Courses start early evening. Residential students to arrive from 4pm, non-residential students to arrive by 6.45pm.

6.45pm: Welcome, followed by dinner (included).

8 - 9pm: First teaching session, attendance is essential.

Daily timetable

Classes 9.15 - 5pm, lunch is included.

From 6.30pm: Dinner (included for residential students).

Evening working - students may have access to workshops until 9pm, but only with their tutor's permission and provided any health and safety guidelines are observed.

Last day

Classes 9.15am - 3pm, lunch is included.

Residential students are to vacate their rooms by 10am please.

(This timetable is for courses of more than one day in length. The tutor may make slight variations)

Course Materials

Included

  • On this course, the tutor will supply a small pack of materials to experiment with including gold and silver foils and small pieces of fine papers and cotton fleece. Additional materials inks, dyes, binders and pigments, adhesive and fine fabrics for use on the course by the group are supplied by the College.

What students need to bring

  • Notebook/sketchbook
  • Apron or old shirt to protect your clothing
  • Embroidery threads and machine embroidery threads, cotton sewing threads, metallic threads, if you have any
  • Sewing needles
  • Paint brushes – a range of sizes, bring what you have
  • Items for extra embellishments like braid, edgings, lace, maps or printing blocks, fine papers or Japanese papers
  • Plant leaves for printing (can be collected in West Dean Gardens)
  • A small pieces of fine muslin, off-cuts of black out fabric and papers for painting, including cotton and Japanese papers, bring what you can

Available to buy

  • Available from shop:
  • A range of additional items including a variety of papers, acrylic paints, brushes and basic sewing equipment, if required
  • Available from tutor:
  • Bondaweb

Additional information

Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio, this includes stout covered footwear (no sandals or open toes).

Tutors

Helyne Jennings

Helyne Jennings has practised in experimental work with paper and textiles since graduating from the RCA in 1981. She has taught widely in adult education and run creative workshops for children and dementia sufferers. Her work continues to be exhibited nationally and internationally and has been commissioned by many leading companies.

Accommodation

Residential option available. Find out accommodation costs and how to book here.

Courses of interest

Further study options

Take the next step in your creative practice, with foundation level to Masters in Fine Art study. 

Depending on your experience, start with an Online Foundation Certificate in Art and Design (one year, part-time), a Foundation Diploma in Art and Design made up of 10 short courses taken over two years (part-time) or advance your learning with our BA (Hons) Art and Contemporary Craft: Materials, Making, and Place (six years part-time). All will help you develop core skills, find direction in your practice and build an impressive portfolio in preparation for artist opportunities or higher-level study. See all degree and diploma courses.