-Marjolein Dallinga-
A MANUAL WOOL FELT SESSION IN TWO PARTS 

The Training 

Join artist Marjolein Dallinga for a 7-day autumn residency in the South of France, a two-part hand-felted wool session.

Objective of the Training 

Being able to diversify one's artisanal production through knowledge of wool felt manufacturing techniques / experimental workshop.

Training description

The felting technique offers endless possibilities. These two three-day workshops explore different themes. The first three days are primarily dedicated to construction with various volumes, shapes, and color combinations. The following three days explore different ways to add texture and volume to the surface of these forms.

These three-day workshops constitute a discovery journey filled with numerous experiments in modeling different wools and other fibers. Students will explore various techniques for sculptural forms, with themes such as folding and unfolding, creating relief, tightening, and connecting. All of this is designed to foster a deeper understanding of how and why to use this medium.

These workshops are inspired by the idea of ​​allowing oneself to discover new ways of creating with wool. Let the wool evoke feelings in you, then decide if that's what you're looking for. We will play with the processes of shortening, thickening, tightening, shrinking, and other transformations of felted surfaces.

The focus will be on how color changes in the felting process and how different felting arrangements and methods alter the shapes.

Detailed program

Part 1, "Colors and Diverse Forms," ​​November 13-15.

The first part (3 days) focuses primarily on volume, color, and three-dimensional wool sculpture. Various experiments will be conducted to deepen our understanding of felt and color, including application, harmony, friction, mixing, toning, glazing, and more.

This three-day first part will further explore the experiences gained from sculpting with felt and other fibers. We will explore different ideas for sculptural forms, using the theme of "upside down/right side up," to become more aware of how and why we want to use this medium. We will focus on fundamentals such as color, design, and the concepts of artwork.

Day 1:

Introduction and explanation of the ideas developed in this workshop, Preparation of two sculptural works, Work on colours and shapes.

Day 2:

Morning : Preparation of the final sculptural work

Afternoon : Assembly using specific relief, folding, felting and modeling techniques of the first sculpture.

Day 3 :
Morning :

Combining specific sculpting techniques with themes of metamorphosis and repetition.

Afternoon :

Felting and finishing of works of art.

Part 2 “Rhythms and associated forms,” November 17 to 19.

The work on the second sculptural project will focus on the "dance of contradictory emotions" from which creativity and art are born. Although sculpture is generally perceived as static, it will be experienced more as a movement, the movement of wool from fibers to felt.

Day 1:

Preparation of the second sculptural work, assembly using specific clamping and cutting techniques, and felting and modeling of the 2nd sculpture.

Day 2:

Assembling specific sculpting techniques for sculptures with themes of rhythm and transformation.

Day 3 :
Felting and finishing of the artworks, exhibition and closing remarks.

Students will be challenged to play with their own designs using sculptural felting techniques, deepening their understanding of the creative process and emphasizing the journey rather than the final product. This is an experimental discovery workshop. At the end of each day, we will discuss the creations to enhance awareness of color and design choices. An exhibition of all the work will complete the course. 

While it is possible to attend only one workshop, it is recommended to take both as they complement each other.

Method of assessing acquired skills

The trainees' progress will be assessed by the instructor at each stage, with final validation being discussed and shared collectively among the trainees. A certificate of attendance will be awarded to the trainee at the end of the course.

You don't create art; it already exists. You must let it come to you, go where art is, instead of trying to create it.

Act according to your imagination and creativity, without attachment to the outcome.

Material available for students

• Each participant will have their own individual workstation, with an adjustable-height table.

• Wool and textiles can be purchased on-site if needed, depending on availability.

• The workshop features a spacious, bright, and airy studio, as well as an extensive library specializing in textile art and color.

• The cost of the training may be covered by your professional training organization (OPCO) (Vivea, Afdas, FAFCEA, Pole Emploi, etc.) depending on your status and eligibility.

Level of prior knowledge and prerequisites

This training is open to all stakeholders in the wool industry (producers, processors, artisans), interior designers, costume designers, textile artists, and anyone involved in textile creation.

Some experience in wool felt making is required. An application will be submitted to assess the applicant's skill level and suitability for the training.

Personal financing rate

6-day training course (42 hours): €840. The day off is not charged.

If your tax residence is in France:

Tuition fees may be covered by training organizations (OPCO, Vivea, Afdas, FAFCEA, France Travail, etc.) depending on your status and eligibility. Contact us for personalized advice and a quote at atelierdubocage31@gmail.com

Maximum number of trainees: 10

Accomodation

Total immersion is beneficial for maximum impact; much of the interaction takes place outside of class time, during breaks, and through informal conversations over meals.

Our residence is the ideal place to stay on-site throughout your training. For more information, please contact us at  atelierdubocage31@gmail.com