Description
In this Workshop, I will share with you the 600-year-old history, culture and technique of mesmerizing water marbling. We will explore how to float colors on top of the water, and learn how to transfer those one-of-a-kind designs onto paper.
Ebru art is a miraculous combination of scientific thinking and art! Surface tension, the density of liquids, and gravity are only some of the scientific concepts that this activity will illustrate. Learners will learn about the properties of aqueous surface design and make observations about the viscosity of water. This art strengthens hand and eye coordination and helps learners to develop good scientific inquiry skills. Learners will also learn about color theory and the use of various surfactants to create different designs.
Marbling increases the ability to pay attention to detail and develops creative thinking skills. Learners will acquire the ability to notice the patterns in nature and reproduce them on the marbling tray. They will also learn about the philosophy of water, which is all about mindfulness and emotional well-being. During the Workshop, I will share three important lessons that water teaches us: being flexible, being open to change, and being humble. The regular practice of this relaxing and calming art is sure to help learners with emotional regulation later in life.
Marbling is directly related to only to art and science, but also to history. Ebru art has been used as a cryptology technique in history, because each pattern can be produced only once. Benjamin Franklin marbled his notes in order to prevent counterfeiting! It is the oldest form of decorative paper art, and it is also related to bookbinding.
I was born in Turkey, and ebru is a traditional art in my country. I learned about ebru art from various masters when I lived in Istanbul. I started as a hobby, but then when we moved to Australia my passion for ebru art evolved into a successful business.
Marbling is like working with a puzzle, every time I marble, I unveil another mystery. Sometimes I stay up until morning, losing track of time marbling. It is an intense joy. It is full of surprises. One night I stayed up marbling in my studio , I did not notice that it was already morning. When I lifted my head, I saw the first lights of the sun! It was the most beautiful sunrise that I have ever witnessed. I was ecstatic with marbling and nature.
I am a Wisconsin-based teaching artist and I go to schools, community centers, libraries and art galleries for various programs such as artist residencies, demonstrations and classes. I am excited to be able to offer this Workshop so that I may share ebru art-making with you!