Visiting Artist Workshop Layered Expressions: Appliqued Unique Batik with Camisha Butler

This workshop will introduce students to a variety of fabric dyeing practices and resist methods while incorporating needlework and applique arrangement.

We will explore the traditional art of batik, using wax-resist techniques to create intricate patterns and designs on fabric. Through the transformative process of immersion dyeing, we will create new and unique visually textured textiles. With an array of different samples from our experimentations, we will combine them into unique, layered compositions using appliqué stitching and embroidery techniques.

This workshop emphasizes both the individual and collaborative aspects of textile art, inviting participants to develop their creative voice while learning practical skills in dyeing, batik, and stitching. Whether you’re an experienced maker or new to textile arts, this session offers ample opportunity to create meaningful, handcrafted works. By the end, participants will leave with a stitched fabric piece that reflects their creative voice and a deeper understanding of traditionally sustainable craft traditions.

Saturday:

Prior to Lunch:

-Quick slide lecture on: history of batik and shibori.

-Preparing fabric for batik, tying and dyeing

-batik exploration

After Lunch:

Dyeing fabrics, batik application

Dewaxing and redying (student choice)

Sunday:

Fabric Sample group share and critique,

Fabric placement and arrangement

Slide: Stitching techniques

After Lunch:

Creating Tapastry or Fabric Piece

Show and Share

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  Camisha Butler is a textile artist/educator from Atlanta, GA. Her work is informed by Neo-Luddite philosophy and the act of preserving and promoting the traditional craft practices of the ancestors. A natural storyteller, she uses a colorful, joyful aesthetic to communicate social commentary and autobiographical reflections through craft based medias such as weaving, applique and embroidery.

  Her work has been shown at Penland School of Craft, Bells Gallery, Dalton Gallery at Agnes Scott College and New England Quilt Museum. She is an active member of the Surface Design Association, the Smithsonian's African American Craft Initiative, Crafting the Future, the William Morris Society and the Chattahoochee Handweavers' Guild.

  Camisha Butler

All materials are provided, but participants are welcome to bring small fabric scraps or personal textiles, garments to repurpose to incorporate into their work. (fabrics must be 100% cotton, linen or rayon)