Nature's Magic

Class description

For all levels of students, in this class we will create this beautiful piece, applying vibrant colors and exciting details. The background is a lace-like filigree carving technique, very airy to add a delicate touch to the composition, the dancing ginkgo leaves are glazed using metallic and ink dyes giving it an effervescent look. Students will create the opening of this beautiful piece by cutting off the gourd's crown leaving certain elements of your design exposed and floating. Finishing up, they will learn to inlay copper wire to accentuate the curvature of the leaves and will inlay a turquoise bead at the end of each leaf, giving this wonderful piece of art work a touch of elegance.

The instructor will provide a class-ready gourd, step by step written instructions, copper wire, glaze, turquoise beads, stick'n burn pattern to accelerate the process.

You are not likely to completely finish in the class time, but you will finish all the filigree carving , the painting of the ginkgo leaves and some of the copper wire inlay. You will leave with instructions to finish it at home.

What you are required to bring

Each student is required to bring the following items to class:

• Dust musk or respirator
• Dremel or similar rotary tool (no Dremel battery operated please), all the burrs you already own (if you need a comprehensive list please contact the instructor)
• Heat gun
• Wood burner with your favorite tip
• Small paint brushes
• Sanding sponges and riffler files
• Gorilla super glue (gel)
• Needle nose pliers and wire cutters
• Gourd Master metallic: gecko green paint, your favorite ink dyes or transparent acrylics
• Your general gourding tool box will be helpful

If you have any questions about the supplies requested, contact Rosario. Her contact info is at the bottom of this page.

About the instructor

Rosario Wilke born in Bolivia is a self-taught and an accomplished fine artist and instructor. Her pieces are distinctive for being one of a kind from contemporary to southwest style. Her work is recognizable because of the different carving techniques she employs and her use of copper in many forms.

Questions about this class?

Rosario Wilke can be contacted by email at [email protected] or 520-236-9626