Like a muse, the Var region of France calls to creatives with her stories. On one side the Mediterranean waters break against the pebbled shores of France, bringing with it traces of history, myths, and legends of an ancient world. On the other side rises the Esterel Mountains: the volcano formed range that bewitched Cezanne, whispers of fertility, and whose red rocks make the sea more shockingly blue. So let the sea air fill your lungs and drive your creativity! This class will not only focus on narrative sculptural hand building, but also mixed media and encaustics! Kirsten Stingle will lead the class in the endless narrative possibilities of expression by building a ¾ life size head inspired by the stories of muses, fates, or sirens. Kirsten breaks down anatomy and proportion guidelines and helps students in a step-by-step approach, as well as providing plenty of individual attention. Kirsten will also guide the class in the potential of gesture by building a ½ life size hand inspired by the Hand of Fatima. Prior figurative experience is not required.

To further the narrative potential, while the pieces are being fired Kirsten will guide the class in making a sculptural headdress using a wire substrate, stitching, and collage. The class will then use encaustic techniques to build texture and enhance the finish of both the ceramics and mixed media components. Beginners Welcome!

This workshop includes:

• Opening and closing lunch including wine and dessert
• Afternoon trip to Frejus to explore Roman ruins.
• Day trip to the Saint-Maaximin-la-Sainte-Baume for a guided tour of the Basilica Sainte-Marie-Madeleine that houses the relics of Mary Magdeleine. Participants will also have the opportunity to hike to the cave where Mary spent her final years.
• Visit to Peyrossol winery, art gallery, and gardens.
• Fieldtrips to local antique markets.

*In order to take advantage of all the delights of the area, participants must rent, or arrange to share, a vehicle.