COST: $60

INCLUDES: instruction, all tools and materials needed to complete one project. 

In this two hour workshop, participants will learn about the dynamic practice of creating designs on objects with heat. Pyrography is a multi-sensory art form that invites us to slow down, become present and consider the process of creation through burning as parallel to the natural cycles of life, death and rebirth. While our focus will be on woodburning, participants will also learn about pyrography on canvas, leather and other natural materials. We will review different tools, tips and pyrography equipment for woodburning, including image transfer techniques, and use a woodburning pen to design and burn four wooden coasters. Participants will also learn about how woodburning can be combined with other art forms, such as painting and drawing, to enhance their projects. Each participant will leave with knowledge of woodburning basics, four woodburned round wooden coasters, and ideas for future burns! 

About the Instructor: 

Melissa Romeo is a freelance artist and art educator living in Portland, Oregon. She is currently pursuing a dual degree in art therapy and counseling and is particularly interested in the intersections of art, community and social action. She believes that art has the incredible potential to open up spaces for relationship-building, meaning-making and problem-solving. 

She's previously led workshops art Art and Design Exchange and DIY Bar in Portland; and the Sitka Center for Art & Ecology on the Oregon Coast. Her offerings include workshops for both kids and adults in a variety of media.

While not in class or facilitating woodburning workshops, Melissa can be found chasing any patch of sunlight Portland has to offer or watering all of the very many plants she’s accumulated.