The transitional space between order and chaos is fruitful territory for artistic exploration. A pure substance is one that is uniform throughout–one that lacks impurities. Such substances are, surprisingly, the starting point to create unexpected patterns.

In this workshop students will discover how pure substances can come together in unexpected ways. The delight in the unexpected is a big part of this workshop, and students will gain much from a series of “aha” moments.

The class will work with a special selection of natural dyes: tannins, indigo, and rust (oxides of metals such as iron and copper). Using both contact printing and immersion dyeing, students will explore ways to drive the print process in different directions or to limit its intensity. Once mastered, these techniques may be used as a starting point for further surface design or as an embellishment that adds character and depth to finished work. The unpredictable element is the key to these techniques: creation of a new print is always an adventure. 

Natalie Grambow has an extensive background in design, teaching, and textile arts. An accredited Interior Designer, she spent many years in Ottawa working within the architectural design field and teaching Design Theory. Natalie’s first deep exploration of textiles began during her Visual Arts/Photography studies at the University of Ottawa when she experimented with non-silver techniques of transferring photographic imagery onto cloth. She subsequently studied at the École d’Impression Textile à Montréal and later travelled to Asia and Latin America where she spent six months learning to weave with local Mayan weavers in Guatemala. Shortly after completing the Textile Arts program at Capilano College in 2001, she was awarded the BC Craft Association’s Award of Excellence. 

Natalie has exhibited her textile art installations in the Lower Mainland, Vancouver, Vancouver Island, and the Sunshine Coast. She  has also developed a line of naturally dyed and printed fabrics and has been commissioned by such clients as the city of North Vancouver. Currently living in Roberts Creek, BC, she continues her art practice and studies from her studio.