A student abrades metal leaf with pumice powder to reveal colors underneath
An exploration of the nature and uses for the calligrapher of copper and brass leaf, (schlag or dutch metal), and of bronze powders. This is not a class about imitating real gold, rather we will capitalize on unique properties of cupric metal for stunning effects. Using various binders, we will make our own gold inks, superior to and more adaptable than those available commercially. A beautiful (yet easy!) technique will be explored, where broken leaf-gilt surfaces partially reveal color washes underneath the metal, and the whole surface will be prepared as a background for fine calligraphy. Patination of the gilded surface, to oxidize the metal into unexpected new colors, will also be demonstrated. Participants will be advised on layout as they prepare designs incorporating the various gilding techniques learned.
Calligraphy by Denis Brown on textured aluminum leaf as demonstrated in the workshop
Tools and Materials: Bronze powder, in any of the many available shades, Dutch metal or schlag leaf: at least 2 books of transfer leaf in any of the available shades of gold (pure copper and aluminum will also be of interest),powdered pumice, finely powdered gum sandarac, Liquid acrylic paints,(or any WATERPROOF paint suitable for making a color wash), gum arabic, PVA glue, a large flat nylon paintbrush, c. 1" wide, c.11"x l7 " pad of thickish paper, & some sheets of hot-pressed watercolor paper an eyedropper or glass pipette, artists oil-painting varnish, (matt or gloss) turpentine or white spirit, old newspaper, cleaning rags, plastic teaspoon, scalpel or scissors, 6 or more small containers with airtight lids (35mm film canisters ideal), calligraphy dip-pens, pencils, ruler, gouache paints, mixing brushes, palettes.
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