6th & 7th June: Hapa Zome workshop- beating up leaves with hammers

Hapa Zome is the Japanese art of beating up leaves with hammers, pounding natural pigment into cloth. It was developed and named by India Flint who is a colour artist although she suggests that people have probably been pounding colours into cloth for centuries.

The skill level you need to start out with this creative springboard for this is pretty basic. If you can hit things with a hammer you can create beautiful works of art.

To make hapa zome you need cotton fabric, different weights seem to all work equally well but you do get slightly different effects. The leaves and flowers that you choose make a difference to the effectiveness. Ones that are full of moisture produce the best results.

By folding the cloth in half with the leaf or petal inside you get a mirror image. Once the petal is under the cloth then it is a matter of gently pounding it with a mallet, hammer or even smooth rock. The surface underneath will come through so find a smooth surface to work on. It seems to appeal to all ages and genders equally, I’m sure this is something to do with the cathartic nature of hitting things with hammers!

from: http://kindlingplayandtraining.co.uk/crafts-and-projects/hapa-zome-beating-up-leaves-with-hammers/

Monday 6th & 27th June 2016 10am - 12.30pm

During the morning you will be shown the basic method of Hapa Zome and you will have time to forage for materials in the woodland and create your own piece to take away. Price: £6 to include morning coffee and materials, spaces limited, booking essential.

Location: Hardy's Birthplace Visitor Centre, Higher Bockhampton, Dorchester, Dorset, DT2 8QH

http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hardys-cottage/features/hardys-birthplace-visitor-centre-at-hardys-cottage

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