Mixed Media: The Art of The Reliquary
rel•i•quar•y: a container or shrine where relics or other precious objects are kept
Instructor: Novie Trump

Session I:  July 1 -  July 13, 2010

Italy is the birthplace of the reliquary, a container or shrine where relics and other precious objects are kept. With the Amalfi Coast as our backdrop we will use the architecture, ruins, colors, textures and light of the Italian coast as inspiration in creating a series of small box shrines.

In this expansive workshop, we will begin the first day with an illustrated talk on the history of reliquaries from ancient times to today. We will then visit local churches and museums to view these magnificent shrines in person. Gathering inspiration from these ancient artifacts, we will utilize found objects, text, paint, wax, glass, wire and thread to create our own reliquaries using shadow boxes. Niches, doorways and windows will be used to alternately hide and reveal inner treasures.

This will be a lively fun-filled workshop. We will explore the surrounding area, including fields, beaches, antique shops, and hardware stores, to photograph, draw, sketch, write and collect found objects. Studio sessions will begin with exciting, informative demonstrations followed by time to create. A wide variety of techniques will be shared, including: mixed media collage, mono-printing, image transfer techniques, cold wax medium, shadow box construction, glass etching and engraving, and found-object collage.

Bring with you a sense of adventure and a willingness to explore!