This workshop aims to show you how to use your love of watercolour in new ways to create timeless silk wearables. While it would be helpful to have a basic understanding of watercolour this is not a requirement as we will help you through each step of the process. We will focus on free-form painting in this session (not spending a lot of time on batik or gutta resist but we will discuss these as well) - this means you will likely be creating stunning colours and flowing abstract effects in the session. However, if you would like to dedicate time to learning how to draw pictures and lines on silk please reach out to us for a private booking instead!
We will cover how to prepare your silk by stretching it onto a frame, and discuss different techniques or mediums you can use to achieve different effects. You will get a choice of either a silk tie or silk scarf to paint - perfect for a unique item to add to your wardrobe or as a gift for a special someone! The techniques in our session can also be applied to painting on silk fabric which can be turned into a wall hanging or framed mounted canvas artwork as well if you so choose.
This workshop will include a take home kit of:
Case
Silk Scarf or Tie (painted by you!)
[Image of a wooden table with a range of art supplies - from the left to right - two blank silk scarves and a silk tie, Chinese calligraphy brushes, watercolour paints, fabric samples, silk paints, and a large rice paper painting.]
All materials will be provided in the session - however, if you have paints you wish to use you are welcome to bring them along as well! You will leave this session with some sample watercolour paintings, knowledge and tips for future paintings, and of course your wearable piece!
[Image of a figure facing away laying on a brightly coloured rug with a black background. They have black curly hair and are wearing a white silk garment with painted colours.]
The session will run for 3 hours with a short break for tea or coffee (provided on site cost inclusive). If you wish to bring a morning/afternoon tea snack please feel free to do so!
Workshop Outline:
Practicing the basics with watercolour paints
Understanding the basic types of silk painting mediums
Composing your design
How to stretch silk onto a frame
Painting and setting your silk painting
[Level 2 Event Space at the Rundle Collective Studios - a large wooden table sits on a graphic print rug with paintings and art materials. There is a colourful geometric mural on the wall.]
Where am I going and how to get to the workshop?!
The Rundle Collective Studios is located in Gawler Place near Rundle Mall. We have a glass door on the ground floor located next to the National Pharmacies and Paradigm Zone Arcade (opposite Daiso). At the front door you will need to be shown into the building by the artist - they will be there to show you in but also don’t hesitate to contact them when you arrive via phone or text on 0459 946 479.
There is some street parking available but most is timed or paid. If you are lucky depending on the time you may have luck on Pirie or Flinders Street but this may be a bit of a walk for some attendees. We would recommend looking at the pre-booked undercover parking options near Rundle Mall for the best paid parking rate, or consider parking close to the city and using public transport to access the city if cost is a concern. The studio building is fully wheelchair accessible as we have an internal lift. We are on Level 2 and 3 of the building and you will need to have assistance from our team to access the building on the day. Don't hesitate to use our door bell or the contact number provided if you have any difficulties. Generally, the space is fairly quiet and sensory friendly - if you have any accessibility considerations you would like to discuss please feel free to contact us so we can ensure the event is adjusted accordingly.
The Event Spaces
There are two event spaces at the Rundle Collective - the smaller space on Level 2 and the larger space on Level 3. We will update you on which space we will be using based on the group size for the event. Both are able to be made private by shutting the door to the main artist studios. We have accessible bathrooms on both levels. We can also access the kitchen on level 2 as needed.
[Level 3 Event Space at the Rundle Collective Studios - a larger room with wooden floors and a large beige rug, with two large event tables. Sometimes these tables are put together to form one large table. There is also a smaller mural in this room.]

