Make your own Art Materials - AUCKLAND BOTANIC GARDENS - EcoFest

Tutors:  Emma Cowan and Sarah Nicholson.

We are running this hands-on workshop as part of Auckland Ecofest 2025.

(Please note the 9am start time, slightly earlier than publicised.)

Throughout the day, you will discover the exciting possibilities for making your own art supplies from plants. You'll come away with natural painting and drawing supplies you've made yourself, and the confidence to continue with more explorations and experiments at home.

First you'll learn to make artist's drawing charcoal sticks, discover which woods work well, how to prepare them, how to make a simple charcoal kiln, and how to make your charcoal smudge-proof!

Then you'll be guided through the process of making your own rich black inks for drawing, painting and lettering, and learn the different ways that these inks can be used.