Seasonal Botanical Dyes Workshop

Inspired by the seasons and permaculture principles of re-use and zero waste, join artist Johanna Tagada Hoffbeck to learn the basics of natural dyes and reveal a palette of colours from local and seasonally foraged materials, including nettle and Gorse flowers.

This spring edition of our popular p will unfold in Camden Art Centre’s garden, offering a moment to relax, observe, and draw its plants and trees, with the aim being to develop a holistic understanding of how materials grow.
This workshop is directly inspired by the method Johanna employs in her own practice. Johanna will also share her experience of growing and foraging plants responsibly, as well as using plant-based kitchen
waste as dyes.

All materials, including a small reference library for inspiration and an organic tea break, will be provided.
This is a beginner friendly, adult-only workshop and
the method you will learn can be repeated at home.
This workshop includes:

• A 15-minute drawing session.
• A short history of natural dyes.
• Demonstration of the creation of three colours
using natural dyes.
• Knowledge of how to safely repeat the process
and create natural dyes at home.
• Two natural dye samples.
• Basic fabric knowledge.
• Knowledge of non-toxic mordants.
• Ground understanding of what tannins are.
• Basic knowledge of plants which can be safely and responsibly foraged in England as natural dyes.
• Knowledge of a selection of plants that can be grown in small home gardens in England for natural dyes.
• Inspiration for natural practices and fabric care
Header photo and portrait photograph of Johanna Tagada Hoffbeck by Aloha Bonser-Shaw for TOAST, 2023’.

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Host or Publisher Camden Art Centre