Connected. June 8th & 9th

A weekend workshop 10am -4:30pm each day Creating an heirloom in bronze and silver.

290 British pounds
Darwin House

Service Description

Unique, but originating from the same tree.....I'm talking about Downy oak leaves - but they are just like you and me - individual! Would you enjoy creating your family tree, or starting a project that can be added to over the years, with an original historic connection? Using organic choices from a majestic oak will inspire and shape your creation to become a meaningful treasure for your family. In the grounds of Charles Darwin's childhood home, we are lucky to have a unique and rare specimen of Downy Oak (Quercus pubescens) - the UK champion - and probably planted by Darwin's parents (indicated by the trunk circumference of 5.2 meters as it only grows a cm a year), so the tree and Charles grew up together! The tree is still here, very special in its beautiful self, and symbolic of the enduring legacy this great man left us. Feretia's workshop involves using bronze and silver clay. It is very accessible with every support offered by an accredited guide, to demonstrate, offer ideas and facilitate the skills you will use, encouraging creative imagination.You will be able to make several unique leaves/pieces with different characteristics - and your family tree will evolve! Day one focuses on a little teaching with demonstration, then you are hands on! designing - figuring out your design steps (silver and bronze need different making and firing conditions) - preparing, then creating your pieces! Day two will assemble your tree on the print, ready for framing within a shadow display box. Workshop techniques and skills learned: Preparing and keeping the clay materials fresh. The differences in medium and uses. Shaping, rolling and achieving consistency. Choosing textures and how to apply them. Sculpting, cutting, inscribing or carving . Using moulding compound. Drying the clay and preparing it for firing. The different methods of firing: torch and kiln. Polishing, finishing and mounting. Amongst many others! Refreshments will be provided, but please bring your own lunch. If a group together is booked, lunch options can be arranged and booked separately. Feretia provides resources and tools for use on the weekend, includes 10g Silver clay paste, 7g of Silver clay, 30g of bronze clay, and a Darwin's Downy oak print on watercolour paper to use as a base. A shadow box with mounting board to frame your piece will be available to purchase. Please get in touch if you would prefer an alternative day or date and we will do our best to accommodate you.