Discover the vibrant art of silk painting in this inspiring one-day workshop, designed to share the craftsmanship of this timeless technique.
Led by experienced textile artist Hilary Simon, this workshop draws inspiration from the current Frida: The Making of an Icon exhibition. You'll explore the gutta resist technique—a versatile method for creating richly coloured designs on silk—and develop your own unique silk panel.
Hilary brings a wealth of artistic expertise specialist knowledge to the session. Her understanding of Frida Kahlo's work and the rich traditions of Mexican textiles provide a inspiring foundation for this creative session.
The workshop is suitable for beginners and people of all abilities alike.
The day will begin with an introduction to silk painting, followed by a visit to the exhibition to study selected works up close, offering invaluable design inspiration before returning to the studio to create your own piece.
Hilary will demonstrate different ways to create a variety of effects on silk using salt, layering and methods of applying the dyes and gutta gum. The dyes are French Dupont which mix beautifully and run like vibrant watercolours. Following the demonstration, time is spent creating designs on paper and testing techniques on a sample silk square. During the afternoon participants will create their own 15” silk square, with one-to-one guidance.
All materials are provided, and you'll leave with a beautifully hand-painted silk panel that can be framed as a unique work of art or transformed into an elegant silk scarf—a lasting reminder of an unforgettable creative experience.
10.30 – Meet at McAulay Studio
10.40 – Introduction to Silk Painting by Hilary Simon
11.00 – Frida Kahlo: The Making of an Icon – an overview of the exhibition and a focus on works for inspiration.
11.30 – Preparing the silk
11.45 – Gathering inspiration and planning designs
12.45 – Silk gutta practice and work
13.00 – Painting with dyes
13.30 – Break
14.15 – Final piece painting and drying time
16.00 – Session ends
Hilary Simon
Hilary Simon is an artist and curator. She has exhibited her work in solo exhibitions worldwide and her paintings have been widely published with her designs used for book covers, greeting cards pottery and rugs. She has run workshops internationally in the UK, America and Mexico, most recently at West Dean College, Fashion and Textile Museum and Centro de las Artes de San Agustin, Oaxaca.
