Day Workshop
Folklore, myth & magic with artist Rowan Corkill

Inspired by the work of Cecila Fiona, explore how costumes can exist somewhere between sculpture and painting, as something to be worn and as a three dimensional piece of art.

You’ll be working on pre-made canvas silhouettes and developing them using paint, collage and mark-making techniques, with natural pigments and gathered materials.

Themes of folklore, symbolism, alchemy, myth and magic will shape thinking throughout the day. The final works will move between image, object and a wearable form.

Research

Reference books and research materials will be provided, including images of alchemy, magic, folklore costumes and characters, archaeological objects, jewelry and costumes.

Discussion

Through discussion, build a context for your costume/sculpture/painting: Is it a ritual, ceremonial, or burial costume? Who is the character that wore it? Does it originate from a folkloric figure? Does it represent a symbol for an idea or philosophy such as alchemy? Are there certain images or symbols that can be incorporated into the costumes that are significant to the creator?

Design and decoration

Decorate the canvas silhouettes using painting, printmaking and mark-making techniques, adding embellishments using provided materials such as textiles, found objects and natural fibers/materials.

Photo documentation will be taken of the pieces as wall-based works, free standing sculptures and possibly wearable costumes depending on your design.

This is a hands-on workshop using paint and ink so please wear practical clothing.

There will be an hour lunch break where you could book into our restaurant Light, visit one of the cafes near to Towner or bring a packed lunch to eat by the sea.

Rowan Corkill is a multidisciplinary Scottish artist based in St Leonards-on-Sea. Their practice explores the relationship between humans and the natural world, often drawing on influences from anthropology, mythology, and folklore.

Through a range of media, Corkill’s work considers themes of ecological interconnectedness, cycles of life and decay, and decomposition as an essential natural process. Alongside their artistic practice, Corkill works in arts education and community engagement. They are a tutor on the Hastings Foundation Course and the BA Fine Art programme, supporting emerging artists in developing their practices.

Rowancorkill.com

Instagram: @rowancorkill

We have a budget available to make this event as accessible as possible – this can include further interpretation services or other access arrangements we can meet to enable you to participate.

If you require access arrangements, please email programme@townereastbourne.org.uk two weeks before the event date so that we can book a service if needed.

*Ticket Prices:

£40 – General
£20 – 18 to 25 / Student
£20 – Disabled Admission
£20 – Universal Credit or Pension Credit recipients
£0 – Essential Companion discounted with tag