Join artists Gustavo Boada and Laurie Witzkowski for a 2-day experience creating artwork inspired by the Mexican celebration, Day of the Dead or Día de Los Muertos. The more deceased loved ones are included in our lives through celebrations like Día De Los Muertos, the stronger their spirits stay with us. 

First work with artist Gustavo Boada to learn about La Catrina, the Mexican symbol that depicts the soul of the loved one who has died–usually a person but it can also be a favorite pet. Using papier-mâché and wire, create the body of your Catrina. Then dress your Catrina using colorful fabric and decorations.

Next work with artist Laurie Witzkowski to create a mini ofrenda that memorializes your loved one. Incorporate photos and objects that are special to this loved one and that represent the 4 elements of life: earth, wind, fire, water.

All materials provided. 
Ages 6 - 12 years
Deadline for registration: October 12, 2023

The holidays are a magical season.  What better time to work together as a family with artist Gustavo Boada to create one of the most magical places there is-Hogwarts Castle, the site of so many of Harry Potter’s adventures. Using tubes, cones, cups, mylar, glue and reciting a single spell, “Decorateum Glueioso” you create a magnificent castle to place in your bedroom or home for the holidays!

All materials provided. 

For all ages. (Good for 2 people per registration.)

Take a whirlwind tour of Peru and the Andes Mountains – one of the highest mountain ranges in the world running the length of Peru – through the arts. The valleys and mountains of the Andes are home to the ancient culture of the Incas and their modern day relatives, the Quechua, or “the people”. Working with artists, learn about some of the traditional art forms and create your own artwork inspired by these traditions. Participate in all three classes daily. All materials are provided.

Drawing and Painting: Animals of the Central Andes
Capture the beauty of Peruvian animals from the llama to the puma that live high in the Andes. Work with artist Karen Anderson to create drawings and paintings of your favorite Andean animals using a variety of art materials. 

Wool Works: Felting
Peru is very well known for the quality of wool provide by the Vicuñas, Llamas, Alpacas. Learn the art of dry felting with artists Julie and Gustavo Boada. Then create your own felted version of your favorite animal from the Peruvian Andes.

Gourd Art: Mates Burilado
The legendary bulgaris gourd, known as mate in Peru, is the basis of the fine art of the mate burilado. The oldest carved gourds date back 3,500 years and were found in the Huaca Prieta temple on Peru’s north coast. Work with Jeanette Dickinson to create your own gourd art inspired by the patterns and colors of Peruvian artisans. 

Ages 6 - 12 years
Tuesday-Friday December 26-29, 2023
9 am – 12:15 pm daily
Registration Deadline: December 19

Take a whirlwind tour of Peru and the Andes Mountains – one of the highest mountain ranges in the world running the length of Peru – through the arts. The valleys and mountains of the Andes are home to the ancient culture of the Incas and their modern day relatives, the Quechua, or “the people”. Working with artists, learn about some of the traditional art forms and create your own artwork inspired by these traditions. Participate in all three classes daily. All materials are provided.

The Retablo
Retablos are wooden boxes painted with brightly colored images that include scenes from daily life in Peru such as shopping in the market place, farming the land, and celebrating special days. Work with artist Laurie Witzkowski to create your own retablo that expresses something special in your life. 

Mask Making 
Join Gustavo Boada, native of Peru and master mask maker, to create a traditional mask worn during a holiday celebration in Peru. Create your mask form with paper maché, then paint and decorate it with ribbons and bells. Now you are ready to wear your mask. Imagine fireworks bursting in the night sky. You are transformed. You become a bull running and chasing people through the streets. 

Hand Sewing-Embroidery
Peruvian textiles have a rich tradition dating back to the pre-Inca. Learn the art of embroidery as you work with artist Julie Boada. Then create a small tapestry patterned with Peruvian designs, motifs, and scenes of community life.

Ages 6 - 12 years
Tuesday – Friday, January 2 – 5 2024
9 am – 12:15 pm daily
Registration Deadline: December 26