The Alchemists used exquisitely rendered emblems, diagrams and illustrations to both explain and hide their experiments and experiences. In turn, many artists have been influenced by Alchemical theory and illustrations including Durer, Jung in both his artwork and writing, and the Surrealists including Breton, Ernst and Varo.

In this six hour class we will trace the history of Alchemy, discuss the goals and aspirations of the Alchemists, explore the illustrations and diagrams that they created and discuss the application of transformation as they envisioned it in their work. We will discuss the creative process and the Alchemical Process as linked in the use of the imagination. Time will be allotted for participants to create a collage or other work on paper incorporating Alchemical ideas. Each learner will be given a “Workfolio” specially designed by the instructor for this class for note taking and for continued exploration of ideas generated by the class. We will be mixing small amounts of metallic powders such as PearEx in non-volatile binders such as gum Arabic, gloss medium, egg white and egg yolks (tempera and glair). 

Materials to Bring: Colored pens and pencils, scissors, Old magazines, things that have spoken to the participants to use in creating a work of art including sewing supplies if desired.

Date & Time: Wednesdays, October 8 & 22, 2014 | 6:30pm-9:30pm