January 24 and 25, 2007

Learning the Monotype Process
Graphicus Atelier
47 Baltimore Street (across from Saville Gallery), in the Cumberland Town Centre
Cumberland, MD
Workshop will be from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day. 
Cost: $100 plus $40 materials fee
All supplies are available at the studio. 
Call 301-722-0018 or email Solitude Studio to register. 

June 2 and 3, 2007

Discovering the Nature of Drawing
Discovery Center at Deep Creek Lake
10 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day
Cost: $50 plus $5 materials fee
To register: Visit the Garrett County Arts Council website.
For specific workshop informaton, contact Solitude Studio.

This workshop is intended to be experienced as a creative retreat rather than as a “how-to” session.  The two main elements of the workshop are: Seeing and Silence.  Through the drawing process, participants will learn “to see” the natural world in a new way.  In a positive supportive atmosphere participants will learn the use of simple basic drawing exercises to explore the landscape of Deep Creek Lake through the senses, recording their experiences visually and in the written word.  No drawing or writing experience is needed.  The exercises are designed to help participants of any skill level to let go of their self-conscious desire for a finished product and to be vulnerable to their surroundings.   

There will be guided walks and ample periods of silence and solitude for drawing and writing along the way as well as poetry and nature readings.  A journal and a drawing pencil are provided for a small fee.  Participants should bring a small folding stool or waterproof cushion if desired for sitting upon the ground.  Comfortable clothing suitable for walking and sitting is appropriate.  Participants will want to bring water for drinking, a bag lunch and insect repellent, if desired.

The mountains, I become part of it…
The herbs, the fir tree, I become part of it.
The morning mists, the cloud, the gathering waters,
I become part of it.
The wilderness, the dew drops, the pollen…
I become part of it.

June 15 and 16, 2007

Watercolor Monotype Workshop
Graphicus Atelier
47 Baltimore Street (across from Saville Gallery), in the Cumberland Town Centre
Cumberland, MD 21502
10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day
Cost: $100 plus a $25 materials fee
To register: Contact Chayo de Chevez.
For specific workshop information, contact Solitude Studio.  

This hands-on monotype workshop will be of particular interest to watercolorists who would like to learn the monotype printing process using their familiar medium in a new creative approach.  Using artist quality watercolors, the workshop participants will learn the use of printing tools, papers and techniques to construct a watercolor monotype as well as the use of the etching press.  When I first began experimenting with monotypes, I used watercolors exclusively.  It was an extension of my work as a painter of traditional watercolor, and I loved the unexpected surprises that resulted from the printing process. There are no rules to this medium and the possibilities for experimentation are endless.

The workshop is designed for the beginning printmaker, but experienced printmakers are also welcome.  All materials will be supplied, but participants are welcome to bring their own watercolor palette, favorite brushes, as well as sketchbooks and/or photos to use for subject matter.

August 25 and 26, 2007

Printing Monotypes from a Gelatin Plate
Spruce Forest Artisans Village
10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday
Cost:  $150 plus materials fee of $30
To register:  Visit the Spruce Forest Artisan Village website and click on the link for registration.
For specific workshop information, contact Solitude Studio.

Without the use of a printing press, participants will explore the printing medium using non-toxic water miscible oil paints to create monotypes with luminous layers of color. Clean up requires only soap and water.  The workshop will present the history of monotypes, demonstrations of techniques for printing monotypes as well as the construction and use of  a gelatin plate.  In a positive and supportive atmosphere, participants will be encouraged to explore these techniques to find their own voice in the process.  All materials and tools will be provided by the instructor and are included in the materials fee.