Cosanti Originals in Paradise Valley is pleased to host two interactive silt-casting experiences this spring. These unique workshops offered Thursday April 3 and Thursday April 17 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. are led by skilled foundry artisan Dakota Peterson.
Combining artistic expression informed by the desert with an exploration of Cosanti’s innovative and experimental historic site the workshops guide students through a hands-on plaster casting exercise that will help them gain a feel for the desert soil. As they create their own one-of-a-kind personal keepsake participants will be taught the same techniques which has enabled the construction of Cosanti itself over the course of its decades-long history.
Attendees will engage in discussions on composition decoration and utility of silt molds the interface between positive and negative form and the artistic capabilities of this most flexible medium—the earth itself.
During the course students will have the opportunity to design pigment and excavate their own plaster tile using the skills they learn in the class combined with their own artistic intuition. The experience also includes an hour-long tour of Cosanti’s structures and a lesson in its history—which delves into Cosanti’s relationship with architecture art and craft as well as how the ideology of Arcology was born from the cooperation of the built environment with the natural landscape. Guests may also see the casting of new bronze windbells in the foundry.
Workshop schedule is as follows:
10 a.m.—Sign-in and orientation
10:15 a.m.—Guided tour of Cosanti
11:15 a.m.—Silt designing pigmenting and casting
12:30 p.m.—Short break (feel free to bring a boxed lunch)
1 p.m.—Excavation photos and conclusion
This experience is suitable for ages 10 to 100+ and all skill levels are welcome. Materials and techniques will be demonstrated over the course of the event. Good walking shoes and comfortable washable clothing is advised as there is a possibility of messy hands (and clothes!).
Space is limited to just 15 participants and the cost is $125+ per person. Guests can register and learn more at arcosanti.org/casting-cosanti/.
For more about Cosanti visit cosanti.com.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Cosanti Originals, 6433 E Doubletree Ranch Rd, Paradise Valley, AZ 85253, United States
