Treat yourself to an exciting art adventure while immersing in Guanajuato, considered to be the jewel of the Colonial cities of Mexico. Experience this European inspired city full of winding narrow streets and leafy garden plazas below which a labyrinth of tunnels and passageways serve as the thoroughfares of the city. By day Immerse yourself in an intensive art making workshop and take the evenings to enjoy the cantinas and cafes, strolling troubadours and string quartets in intimate settings. The numerous museums of art, history, churches and even the famous mummies all serve to make Guanajuato, still one of Mexico’s best-kept secrets, a fascinating destination for an art making getaway.
The Workshop
The workshop focuses on monotype as a tool for mixed media printmaking. Using Akua non-toxic water-based inks, participants of all levels will learn monotype through various methods of mixing, modifying, layering inks, using and abusing mark-making tools, and exploring the limits of paper. Instruction includes a wide range of uses for chine colle, collage, and drawing. If you have ImagOn, Solarplates, or other matrix, feel free to bring them. These can be incorporated with multi-plate printing methods, opening the door to limitless opportunities.
The emphasis is on “the artist as an inventor,” and each participant will be encouraged to stretch his or her methods of expressing and breaking barriers into new and uncharted territory. The information presented is cumulative and participants will have the opportunity to revisit their works-in-progress over the course of the week. An optional materials list will be sent to each registered participant as it gets closer. If you have any questions regarding the coursework please contact Ron Pokrasso, pokrasso@gmail.com or have a look at the website, www.ronpokrasso.com.
The Program
The program begins with a festive welcome dinner and orientation at Alma del Sol on Friday, Feb 7. The workshop takes place at Piramidal Grafica. With two large presses one small press and ample workspace for 12 participants, this professional printmaking facility is well suited to serve all the creative needs of workshop attendees. Seven days have been allotted for the program including a “day off” on Tuesday, Feb. 11th when participants can take the time to explore the City and Region. Optional excursions are possible at additional cost.
There is a minimum of 36 instructional hours, 10am-5pm each day (except Tuesday, Feb 11th). Most printmaking materials such as Akua inks and modifiers, monotype plates, tools, adhesives, paper towels, rags, solvents, etc. are included. A limited supply of Arches 88 paper is available for purchase @$7.50/sheet. Participants will be encouraged to bring some of their own paper. Our host Hugo Anaya promises wonderfully prepared lunches each of the instructional days. Hugo will also serve as assistant for the workshop and will provide all the necessary information to help make this a memorable visit to Guanajuato and a rewarding artistic adventure.
The program culminates with an informal critique and discussion to serve as closure and celebration on the final day of class.
Tuition
The workshop tuition is $1450 and includes 36 hours of instruction, welcome and farewell dinners and 6 in – studio lunches.
To confirm your participation and hold your space, use the Add To Cart button below to pay a $350 deposit. Or contact me first with your intention and then send a check for $350, payable to:
Ron Pokrasso, 1417 Galisteo St, Santa Fe, NM 87505.
Deposits are fully refundable until November 15 (less Paypal fees).
Tuition balance is due December 15. After December 15, refunds (less a $100 admin fee) are possible only if your space can be filled.
Accommodations
Hugo Anaya runs Alma del Sol, www.almadelsol.com as well as Hotel de Color, a small hotel near the Jardin. These accommodations range from $70-$100 per night/ room, including breakfast. They are available on a first come basis. Once your workshop participation is confirmed, contact Hugo directly at info@almadelsol.com to make your arrangements. As another option, Hugo recommends Hotel Casa del Agua. You are also free to make your own arrangements for lodging. Contact me if you need assistance in finding a roommate.
All lodging accommodations are a short cab ride or an invigorating walk to and from the studio.
Travel
Participants are responsible for their own travel arrangements to and from Guanajuato. You will likely fly to Leon (BJX). Participants will be given instructions for transport to and from the airport to Guanajuato City.
Optional Add on in San Miguel de Allende
After your week in Guanajuato consider traveling to San Miguel de Allende (additional costs) .
Schedule
On or before Friday, Feb 7 – Arrival in Guanajuato
Friday, Feb 7, 7 pm – Welcome dinner and orientation at Alma del Sol
Saturday – Monday, Feb 8-10 – Instruction 10-5
Tuesday, Feb 11 – day off to tour the city and region (open studio possible)
Wednesday – Friday, Feb 12-14- Instruction 10-5
Friday, Feb 14 – late afternoon/ evening – informal critique, celebration, farewell dinner at Alma del Sol
Saturday, Feb 15 – depart Guanajuato
Contacts
For workshop questions & tuition payments
Ron Pokrasso
1417 Galisteo St
Santa Fe, NM 87505
(505) 577 6296
For lodging, transportation questions and any dietary restrictions