Nature of Art workshops proves to be a "natural"

Whoever said "dyeing is easy" has never tried it. Twenty women took on the challenge to learn the process at the Nature of Art Workshops sponsored by Alpine Artisans on Saturday, Sept. 20-21 in Seeley Lake.

The workshop convened for the second year to offer experimentation with new techniques in eco-printing as taught by Crystal McCallie, University of Montana textile art instructor.

In the end, they turned the paper and fabric they had dyed into a lovely handmade book. Following the dying process in the afternoon, bookmaking was taught by Shimi McKenzie of Hamilton.

"We made a personalized eight signature, open spined art book. It seemed magical as we stitched and folded and glued and it all came together at the appointed time, 5 p.m.! There were beautiful results by all," McKenzie said.

On Sunday, they took that book and ventured out to Big Larch Campground on the lake and learned how to use it for a nature journaling class taught by Valerie Bayer of the Naturalists with Brushes group. The weather held true to a beautiful fall day on the lake.

In the afternoon, the conditions were great for the last event of the weekend - en plein air painting at the picnic area.

"It couldn't have been a better weekend for the event," said Kris Gullikson, the organizer and plein air instructor with Alpine Artisans. "No one was disappointed, and we all enjoyed the results of our labors."

Next year's event will be on Sept. 5-7.

"This event has proven to be an exciting and encouraging process for all those who like to experience a new style of art and incorporate it into their own artistic methods," said Gullikson. "We welcome creative folks of all ages and beginners are always welcome."