A Handmade Palette: Natural and Historical Watercolors

In this two-session workshop (Sundays. January 18 & 25) taught by artist and educator Natalie Stopka, delve into the history, chemistry, and hands-on practice of pigments and paint-making. Concoct a palette of 12 handmade watercolors inspired by pre-industrial artists’ recipes from the 14-19th centuries, including botanical pigments made from scratch. Along the way, learn about and discuss the socio-cultural and ecological entanglements of color. Inspired by themes in the exhibition Anish Kapoor: Early Works, on view through February 1, 2026, mix a natural paint medium and mull pigments into paints. Participants will leave with a paintbox of 12 watercolors and the knowledge to continue expanding their palette with thoughtfully sourced pigments.

Natalie Stopka is an artist and educator focused on the material history of color and sustainable studio practice. She is the author of From Plant to Pigment: How to make your own vibrant inks, pastels and paints, published by Skittledog in 2025. Raised on the south coast of Massachusetts, Natalie holds a BFA from the Rhode Island School of Design and MFA from the University of New Mexico. Her studio and dye garden are in Yonkers, and she currently teaches at SUNY New Paltz.

All skill levels welcome; all materials provided.

$250 General; $225 Members. Ticket purchase includes both classes on January 18 & 25.