This in-person workshop takes place at CBA on February 29 - March 21, 2024 from 6:00 pm to 8:30 pm.
- Thursday, February 29, 6:00pm - 8:30pm
- Thursday, March 7, 6:00pm - 8:30pm
- Thursday, March 14, 6:00pm - 8:30pm
- Thursday, March 21, 6:00pm - 8:30pm
Please Note: Registration for this workshop closes on February 22nd, at 11:59 pm.
About the Workshop:
This in-person workshop is taught by CBA instructor Fan Kong.
Imagine an edible book that melts instantly with hot water or biodegrades within a few months. In the world of artists' books and zines, bioplastics present a unique opportunity at the intersection of art, science, and design. Incorporating skills and techniques from traditional bookmaking such as accordion folds and stab-binding, we will create hybrid book forms that combine paper and bioplastics.
Participants will be introduced to the theory and practice of bioplastics, as well as focus on the design as an assembly of a book project. You will have opportunities to make or fuse bioplastics, focusing on three specific recipes: bio-laminate (for layering or covering), bio-resin (for hardcovers or sculptural forms), and carrageenan bioplastic (for book cloth). By the end of this course, you will come away with an experimental artists’ book as well as an embodied understanding of the tensions and possibilities of bioplastic for design. No previous experience working with biomaterials is required!
Fun Fact: The first man-made plastic - or bioplastic - was made from cellulose in 1862, but MesoAmerican cultures had used natural latex and rubber since 1,500 BCE.
Required Materials:
- Embroidery hoop
- Cotton or canvas cloth
- Plastic lid from takeout or yogurt container
All other materials will be provided by CBA at no additional charge to the students.
About Fan Kong
Fan Kong is an Experienced Youth Researcher and Teaching Artist with a demonstrated history of working in civic, educational, and social service institutions. Skilled in Participatory Design Research, Grant Writing, Program Development, and Community Organizing.
All images courtesy of the instructor.
Class size is limited to ensure an optimal participant to instructor ratio. Register now before spots fill up! Registration for this workshop closes on February 22nd at 11:59pm. The price of this class is $350 plus a $25 materials fee.