Découpage & Beyond with Artist Erin Whalen

• 2026: SEP 29

• Tuesday 1 PM - 3:30 PM CST

• Ages 14+

• Space is limited to 8, Registration required

• All supplies are included

COST:

GLAF Members: $40

Non-GLAF Member: $45

LOCATION:

Gallery 223

223 Broad St.

Lake Geneva, WI

REGISTRATION:

Select REGISTER button to connect to registration & payment.

REGISTER

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Class Description:

Discover the creative world of découpage in this fun, hands-on class—no experience necessary! Originating in 17th-century France, découpage has evolved into a popular mixed-media art form that allows you to transform ordinary materials into unique works of art. In this workshop, you'll learn essential decoupage techniques using a versatile liquid polymer base primer (Gesso paste may be used instead), découpage paste and a variety of beautiful rice papers. In addition, you’ll learn how to embellish your work with texture paste, stains, acrylic paints, metallic waxes, and a non-toxic protective varnish to create a beautiful, archival-quality finished piece. You'll also explore dry-brushing techniques that add depth and character to your artwork.

Sample of student's finished piece who is an author and made this piece focusing on her interests.

Students may choose to create their project on a wood panel, canvas, wine bottles, antique apothecary bottles or even seashells! A variety of "found" objects and embellishments will be provided, but you're welcome to bring your own meaningful items to incorporate into your design. Old photographs and natural materials work especially well. Plastic or synthetic materials do not adhere well with this medium.

Should you have a special piece or pieces you wish to include in your art piece (photographs, objects found in nature, special personal trinkets) please feel free to do so. Any questions on what you may wish to bring, the artist instructor, Erin Whalen, would be happy to speak to you.  Please send her a note and she will respond.

If time permits, students may begin a second project to complete at home.

Meet The Instructor:

Erin brings a strong background in both education and the arts, having earned a Master Training Specialist designation during her military service and over 15 years of experience in curriculum development. She has taught fiber arts for more than a decade and previously served as both workshop coordinator and instructor for the Wisconsin Sheep & Wool Festival.

While her experience spans a wide range of fiber arts, Erin has discovered her true artistic passion in mixed media sculpting. She is drawn to the versatility and ever-evolving nature, allowing for both creativity and intricate detail, that mixed media provides.

“Mixed media allows me to bring my ideas to life with a level of detail I haven’t been able to achieve in other mediums. The possibilities are endless, and I look forward to sharing my passion with you.”

Supplies Needed:

All class materials and supplies are included. Students wear comfortable clothing that you don’t mind getting paint, paste or liquid polymer on.  Consider bringing an apron and, if desired, latex gloves to protect your hands will be provided by the instructor.  If gloves are not worn, rings and bracelets should be removed.  Materials can be messy!

Cancellations & Refunds:

• No refunds will be issued for no shows.

• No refunds will be issued for any dropped students during the class/session.

• Cancellations prior to the first date of class or classes will incur a $10 cancellation fee deducted from the refund.

• Class cancellation due to the Instructor or GLAF will receive a full refund.

• If a class needs to be made up, due to weather, etc. the Instructor may add a make-up day to the schedule.  If a change is necessary for a one-day class and you are not able to attend on the make-up day, a full refund will be issued.

Questions?:

If you have any questions, you can contact the instructor, Erin Whalen, at altiva47@gmail.com