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. Image transfer techniques will also be taught. 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 program. 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.
The Program
The program begins with a festive welcome dinner and orientation at Alma del Sol on Monday, January 29. The workshop takes place in the newly remodeled Piramidal Grafica studio. With several presses and extensive workspace, this printmaking facility is well suited to serve all the creative needs of workshop attendees. Nine days have been allotted for the program including a “day off” on Saturday, Feb. 3 when participants can take the time to explore the City and Region. Optional excursions are possible at additional cost. There is a minimum of 48 instructional hours, 10am-5pm each day (except Saturday, Feb 3) plus open studio time throughout the program. 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/sheet (you will be advised to consider bringing some of your 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.
TuitionThe tuition is $1750. Included are 48 hours of instruction, most studio supplies, a welcome and farewell dinner and 8 in studio lunches.
A $350 deposit – refundable until Nov 15, 2023 (less Paypal fee) is requested to secure your spot. Contact me with your interest and once availability is confirmed prepare a check made payable to Ron Pokrasso and send to:
1417 Galisteo Street, Santa Fe, NM 87505.
You may also pay a deposit online by clicking the “Add To Cart” button below.
Tuition balances are due December 15, 2023.
Accommodations
Hugo Anaya runs Alma del Sol, www.almadelsol.com, as well as Hotel de Color, www.facebook.com/callejoncalvario9/. Both are centrally located in the old downtown area near the Jardin. For our program he has reserved 9 rooms that can accommodate 1 or 2 people each. These accommodations range from $70-$100 per night/ room, including breakfast and are available on a first come basis. Once your deposit has been paid, contact Hugo directly at info@almadelsol.com to make your arrangements. Contact me if you need assistance in finding a roommate. As another option, Hugo recommends Hotel Casa del Agua . You are also free to make your own arrangements for lodging.
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 Guanajuato.
*Optional Add on in San Miguel de Allende
After your time in Guanajuato consider traveling to San Miguel de Allende a wonderful city just an hour and a half from Guanajuato.
Schedule
- On or before Monday, Jan 29 – Arrival in Guanajuato
- Monday, Jan 29, 7 pm – Welcome dinner and orientation at Alma del Sol
- Tuesday – Friday, Jan 30 – Feb 2- Instruction 10-5 with in-studio lunches
- Saturday, Feb 3 – day off – open studio or tour the city and region
- Sunday – Wednesday, Feb 4 -7- Instruction 10-5 with in-studio lunches
- Wednesday, Feb 7 – late afternoon/evening – informal critique, celebration and Farewell Dinner at Alma del Sol
- Thursday, Feb 8 or later – depart Guanajuato/ optional (additional costs): visit San Miguel de Allende
Contacts
For workshop questions and tuition payments
Ron Pokrasso
1417 Galisteo St
Santa Fe, NM 87505
pokrasso@gmail.com
(505) 577 6296
For lodging, transportation questions and any dietary restrictions
Hugo Anaya
info@almadelsol.com
+52(473)733-5423
