Helen Stokes
"The nature of casting"
'Helen Stokes is a leading exponent of cast glass. Her work is remarkable for its finely worked detail and exquisite texture, yet the sculptural forms are strong and dynamic' (David Wright, April 2000). Helen is an experienced artist and teacher, regularly travelling overseas to demonstrate her 'Honeycomb' mould technique. Inspired by natural found objects and forms, Helen has participated in numerous exhibitions and her work has been widely collected.
What is the workshop about?
Capture the essence of the natural world as 3D-form, texture and light through glass casting. Helen will guide you through techniques of mold making (taking textures and molds from natural items), and lost wax casting, building layered molds and the "honeycomb technique" allowing fine detail and delicate texture. You will experience nature in perhaps one of the most stunningly sited studios in Australia. Surrounded by bush on an elevated ridgeline, yet with access to the sheltered water of the Channel region, there is no end of natural inspiration. Finish each day with a dip in the pool. For all levels of experience.
What should participants expect to bring?
Dust mask, sketch book and drawing materials of choice, closed footwear for wearing in the workshop, tools for wax working if you have them. Definitely bring your bathers for a dip in the pool at the end of each day!
Helen's website
http://www.stokesglass.com.au/
Where and When?
The workshop will be held from 09:00 on Sunday 11 January to 16:00 (4pm) on Wednesday 14 January, o9:00 - 16:00 each day (4 days). This allows attendees a day to sightsee or relax, before the Conference starts on Friday 16 January.
The workshop will be held at Ruth Downham's studio at 369 Woodbridge Hill Road, Woodbridge 7162; Google Maps reference. Woodbridge is about 40 minutes drive south of Hobart along the Southern Outlet and the Channel Highway, in the Channel District. See also Ruth's detailed instructions. The town is known for its fine foods. Try visiting Peppermint Bay restaurant, providore or art gallery, or Grandvewe Cheeses (made from sheep's milk). Attendees might consider car-pooling and we can put you in touch with each other. Some accommodation can be found in the nearby town of Woodbridge to save commuting from Hobart.
Your hosts are Ruth and Fintan Downham. Enjoy the stunning views and 1000s of rhododendrons. Light lunches and morning and afternoon teas will be provided. Contact Ruth 03 6295 1518 for accommodation advice.
