14 Stone Crafts courses in Crowborough

Join Daniel Docherty and Sheetle Shah for this practical two-day course exploring sacred pattern and the art of henna. On the first day of the course Daniel will give an overview of the practice and philosophy of Mandalas from various traditions. Participants will be introduced to certain key characteristics and significant symbolism inherent within traditional Mandalas. We will learn how to construct some of these sacred patterns using the traditional tools of compass and straightedge. Sheetle, a henna artist with 20 years of experience with this traditional art form, will guide participants through the processes of making and preparing henna paste 'from scratch'. You will learn how to apply intricate patterns to paper, hands or feet depending on your preference! Henna is a natural pigment with remarkable staining qualities. You will learn how it is traditionally applied to hands and feet during festivals and celebrations; today, henna is also applied for ‘belly blessings’, cosmetic tattoos, semi-permanent face painting, hair dye and has developed many other creative roles.

A practical and participatory two-day introductory course for anyone wanting to develop a deeper relationship to ink and ochre. We will walk in the beautiful Ashdown Forest; we will reverently forage minerals and materials which we will transform - through various alchemical processes - into pigment, paint and ink. These endeavours will be accompanied by exercises in contemplative pattern construction and plein-air sketching.

Delve into the deep mysteries of Sacred Geometry - 'Art of the Ever-True', under the gentle guidance of SAOG Studios' senior tutor Daniel Docherty. You will learn how to draw the primary four, five and six fold 'Creation' Diagrams with the traditional geometer's tools of compass and straightedge. You will be introduced to the inherent symbolism of these symmetries and how they may be developed into a myriad of pattern possibilities. The pace of this weekend course will be set with beginners in mind and there will be time to enjoy conversation and colour ... and of course tea, coffee and cake!!!

This one-day course will focus on the construction of some beautiful Moroccan geometric patterns using the traditional geometers' tools of compass and straightedge. Daniel Docherty will lead the class in a gently guided, step-by-step manner suitable for both beginners and experienced alike.