The process of scratchboard is as basic as drawing with a pencil. The artist uses a knife instead of a pencil and applies the strokes to a panel coated with black india ink over white clay instead of applying to white paper. With each stroke of the knife blade, a scratch removes the black ink revealing the white beneath. We’ll be initially inspired by viewing contemporary scratchboard artists’ works, then do an exercise to gain confidence in removing a wide range of black and creating those grey tones, and finally on the second day we’ll do a quick review of composition and be starting our own artworks using our chosen subject matter and an excellent composition.
 
Location: Prairie du Sac, Wisconsin
Instructor: Rhonda Nass
Cost: $175 + $15 kit fee
Sponsor: River Arts Inc
Website, email, 608-643-5215

In this workshop we will begin with backgrounds and underpainting/marking methods. Collage and assemblage materials and methods will be discussed broadly as a group, with ample time for one-on-one discussion with the instructor. We will discuss a variety of assemblage methods for securely attaching 3-D elements. Each day will build on the demos and skills from the prior day of the workshop. The final day of class will be left as open work-time with individual questions and troubleshooting. This class is best suited to individuals with some basic encaustic experience.
 
Location: Mineral Point, Wisconsin
Instructor: Sarah Rehmer
Cost: $500
Sponsor: Shake Rag Alley
Website, email, (608) 987-3292

This workshop is designed for both painters and photographers interested in gaining new skills and pushing the boundaries of their studio practice through the combination of encaustic, collage, and black and white photography. Explore a range of subject matter, paper rusting techniques, and methods for mixing media to create dynamic hybrid artworks. Begin by utilizing various methods of underdrawings to bring in pattern and additional detail to the work, such as wood burning tools, inks, oil paints, and encaustic. Focus is placed on incorporating embedded photo prints on thin papers such as tissue and Japanese papers, as well as image transfers to create final work that is both ethereal and richly detailed in its layers. Individualized feedback is provided
 
Location: Fish Creek, Wisconsin
Instructor: Sarah Rehmer
Cost: Members: $590 | Non-Members: $620
Sponsor: Peninsula School of Art
Website, email, 920.868.3455

This workshop is for the artist who loves the unexpected alchemy that can happen when a little time and some heat are applied to plants, flowers, and papers to make a unique eco-dyed print. We will explore the use of various prep methods for printing, as well as modifiers to change the colors of our final prints. Rust printing will be explored and even combined with our botanical prints to create an additional level of colors, textures, and details to a print. You will come away from the workshop with a treasure trove of papers that can be used in collage, book making, or even stand on their own as a beautiful finished botanical print.
 
Location: Mineral Point, Wisconsin
Instructor: Sarah Rehmer
Cost: $300
Sponsor: Shake Rag Alley
Website, email, (608) 987-3292

Alternating between demonstrations and working time, learn how to set up your workspace and use the materials and equipment safely, as well as explore basic painting techniques and fusing methods. If you have current pieces made in another medium, please bring for a discussion on how to translate or enhance the work with encaustic paints. All paints and tools are supplied. Designed for students new to the encaustic medium, this workshop provides a hands-on introduction to the materials, working methods, and safety of encaustic painting. Gain a solid foundation and the confidence to continue exploring encaustic beyond the workshop.
 
Location: Fish Creek, Wisconsin
Instructor: Sarah Rehmer
Cost: Members: $270 | Non-Members: $295
Sponsor: Peninsula School of Art
Website, email, 920.868.3455

Sharpen your colored pencils for workshop fun in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin- post-summer rush but still during the mild September weather. Kristy Kutch, a supportive, generous teacher, is the author of "Drawing and Painting with Colored Pencil" and "The New Colored Pencil". Kristy is featured in 4 instructional DVDs. Included are many aspects of this medium and its compatible surfaces. Create effects ranging from soft, transparent, and aqueous to dense and dramatic. Harbor Shores Hotel, on Geneva Lake, offers outstanding student discounts. Rooms feature mini-fridges, wet-bars, and microwaves. (Lodging reservations should be made separately. Inquire at 888-746-7371 to receive booking link. Mention this workshop for discount.) Bring an extra tote bag for samples; plan for this memorable workshop!
 
Location: Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
Instructor: Kristy A. Kutch, C.P.S.A.
Cost: $285
Sponsor: Kristy Kutch Colored Pencil Workshops
Website, email, 219-874-4688