Magical Creatures and Curious Constructions

• Dates: March 15-22, 2026 (6 days)

• Medium: Assemblage and Mixed Media

• Skill Level: All

• 8-12 Students

Day 1: The Scavenger's Eye

Theme: Collecting with Curiosity

Objective: Awaken the ability to see potential in the overlooked and begin building a shared material vocabulary for the week.

Morning Session:

Introduction to creatures and construction Symbolism: Explore how animal symbolism have been represented in cultures around the world, focusing on their spiritual and transformative significance.

Artist Presentation: Examine Geoffrey Gorman's past projects involving found objects, to understand how discarded materials can become powerful artistic elements.

Discussion: Discuss the themes of reuse, storytelling, and transformation through sculpture. Introduce the importance of personal and collective narratives in the creation process.

Brainstorming: Participants begin thinking about their own sculptures—deciding on the animal or totem that resonates with them personally and conceptually.

Quick demo: how to combine disparate materials using wire, screws, and armature basics.

Afternoon Session:

Material Gathering Activity: A field trip or hands-on scavenging to collect found objects from the surrounding town of San Miguel—tools, furniture parts, wood, metal, or anything that could be repurposed.

Sorting & Exploration: After collecting materials, participants sort through their findings, thinking about the creative potential of each item.

Goal for the Day: Each participant should gather a personal collection of materials and solidify the concept for their magical creature sculpture.

Guided Scavenger Walk through Centro:

• Mushroom Vintage – Calle Hidalgo near Plaza Principal
  Curated vintage shop with curious small items, metal fragments, and antique parts.

• Mercado de Artesanías Lucas Balderas – Lucas Balderas #17
   Rows of artisan stalls selling ceramics, woven goods, broken tiles, discarded crafts.

• Calle Hidalgo / Relox / La Luz corridor – explore antique shops for wood scraps, fragments, small fixtures.

Day 2: Studio Foundation

Theme: Structure, Armature, and Intention

Objective: Build and complete a basic sculpture framework with a focus on stability and form.

Morning Session:

Assemblage Techniques: Introduction to the basics of assembling sculptures from non-traditional materials, focusing on creating stability, balance, and structure.

Demonstration: Methods for attaching materials, including drilling, wiring, and using adhesives.

Sketching & Design: Participants begin sketching their ideas and creating a framework or skeleton for their sculptures, considering how the materials will come together in a solid form.

Building the Structure: Participants start assembling the core structure of their totemic creature, ensuring it is secure and stable.

Afternoon Session:

Work Time: Participants continue to build the structure, applying techniques and problem-solving to balance and shape their sculptures.

• .Emphasis on gesture and personality of form — animal, totem, or abstract.

• One-on-one guidance and troubleshooting.

Day 3: Texture and Transformation

Theme: Surface, Skin, and Meaning

Morning Session:

Bringing Life to the Sculpture: Focus on adding personality and movement to the sculptures through detailed work on specific features such as heads, tails, wings, or limbs.

Textural Techniques: Demonstration on creating texture and depth by wrapping, layering, and incorporating ephemera. This session emphasizes how small details can enhance the spirit and personality of the piece.

Adding Features: Participants begin adding key details to their sculptures, focusing on how each part of the creature contributes to its overall expression.

Demo: Aging surfaces, patinas, and painting techniques using natural pigments or wax.

Afternoon Session:

Field Trip: To Jimmy Ray studio then onto world-renowned folk-art Chapel of Santuario de Atotonilco.

Day 4:  Sculpting with Clay

Morning and Afternoon Sessions:  

• Work from general to specific: start with rough proportions, refine details gradually.

• Asses:  Step back often to check balance, proportion, and gesture.

• Combine techniques: Coiled bodies with slab or pinched details or add small polymer clay elements to large armatures.

• Texture and Surface:  Add textures with stamps, combs, sponges, or found objects.
  Experiment with slip for raised decoration or attaching small pieces. For realism, observe anatomy or surfaces in nature; for abstract, follow intuition.

Continue working in studio, constructing small experimental sculptures using wood and clay, integrating found objects, patinas, etc.  Mid-day critique. 

Day 5: Refinement and Problem-Solving

Morning session:

Brief group circle: What has emerged in your work since Day 1? What is the piece "asking for" now—more structure, simplification, balance, contrast?

Refinement of pieces:  Refine your pieces considering how they will be presented on pedestals or wall hung. Continue experimenting with various finishes, paints, and exterior material. 

Finalize their Form:  Address proportion, tilt, and gravity.

Problem-Solving:  Instructor circulates for one-on-one problem-solving—engineering support or aesthetic tuning.

Afternoon Session:

Visit the old textile factory turned into gallery space, Fabrica la Aurora.

Day 6: Refinement and Finish

Theme: Polish, Presence, and the Final Gesture

Objective: To honor process as much as product.

Morning session:

Installation & Display
The exhibition should feel like a cabinet of wonders—raw, poetic, and personal—reflecting the energy of San Miguel's textures and found histories.

Afternoon Session:

Invite local artists, friends, and curious neighbors for an informal open studio.
Instructor begins with a short talk summarizing the week:

• The philosophy of transformation.

• How San Miguel's textures, history, and discarded materials shaped the works.

Each participant briefly presents their sculpture and reads their artist statement (1–2 min. each).

Celebrate the week's creative journey by curating and presenting participants' finished sculptures in a group installation. Emphasis on storytelling, community dialogue, and reflection on transformation through materials.

Discussion prompts:

• What surprised you about your creative process this week?

• How did the found materials teach you something unexpected?

• What might you carry forward into your own studio practice?

By the end of this workshop, participants will have created their own magical creature using a combination of creativity, resourcefulness, and storytelling to breathe new life into found materials. The focus on transformation, narrative, and symbolism will guide each participant in creating a personal and expressive piece of art.

Day 1 (Sunday)

• Arrival at Casa de la Noche

• Marguerita Party in the courtyard at 7 p.m.

• Drinks and Botanas will be served.

Day 2 (Monday)

• Breakfast beginning at 7 a.m.

• 9 a.m. to Noon - Meeting in Art Room for an intro, presentation, discussion, brainstorming and quick demo.

• Lunch - Noon to approx. 1 p.m.

• 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. (approx.) – Material Gathering Field Trip

• 6:30 p.m. - Cooking Class dinner at Casa de la Noche

Day 3 (Tuesday)

• Breakfast beginning at 7 a.m.

• 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. - Full day Studio

• Lunch is on your own

• Dinner is on your own

Day 4 (Wednesday)

• Breakfast beginning at 7 a.m

• 9 a.m. to Noon – Studio time in Art Room

• Lunch - Noon to approx. 1 p.m.

• 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. (approx.) - Field Trip

• Dinner is on your own

Day 5 (Thursday)

• Breakfast beginning at 7 a.m.

• 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. – Studio time in Art Room

• Lunch is on your own

• Dinner is on your own

Day 6 (Friday)

• Breakfast beginning at 7 a.m.

• 9 a.m. - Noon - Studio time in Art Room

• Noon - 4 p.m. (approx.) - Fabrica la Aurora

• * Lunch is on your own but the group will eat at the restaurant in Fabrica la Aurora

• Dinner is on your own

Day 7 (Saturday)

• Breakfast beginning at 7 a.m.

• 9 a.m. - Noon - Installation & Display

• Noon to 1 p.m. - Lunch

• 4 p.m. - Open Studio/Discussion

• 6 p.m. - Farewell dinner at Casa de la Noche

Day 8 (Sunday)

• This concludes your stay with us at Casa de la Noche.

• Please check with concierge for check-out time.

• Transportation to the airport will be arranged based on your flight information.

The Retreat Price Includes:

• Transportation to/from Leon, Mexico (BJX) or Queretaro, Mexico (QRO) airports (both are approx. 1½ hour ride to San Miguel de Allende). You will be dropped off at the entrance of Casa de la Noche.

• 7 nights at Casa de la Noche

• 6 days of workshop instruction at Casa de la Noche

• Margarita party on first evening at Casa de la Noche

• All breakfasts (7 days), Lunch (3 days), Dinner (2 days – includes 1 cooking class meal and one farewell dinner at Casa de la Noche

• Two tour excursions (TBD) plus transportation

DOES NOT include:

• Airfare

• Travel Insurance

• Travel documentation or travel medical expenses

• Other Alcoholic Beverages

• Gratuities

• Small hand tools (small pair of plyers, slotted & Phillips head screwdrivers, utility knife)

• Dremel or other small specialty tools (if you have them, feel free to bring them but DO NOT go out and buy just for this workshop!)

• Ephemera that you want to work with

• Lost and found stuff (old pages; old, rusted tin; nails; screws; etc.

• Yellow and E600 Glue (could be bought in San Miguel)

• An assortment of paints that you like to work with (could be bought in San Miguel)

NOTE: Please limit the size of your toolbox to nothing larger than a shoe box.  It is easy to get carried away with bringing a lot of stuff for this type of workshop but because of the traveling aspect, be mindful of what you pack.  Also, keep in mind we will be scavenger hunting for interesting elements to use in your work on the first day – and will be making a trip to the local art store.  

REGISTRATION, PAYMENTS, CANCELLATIONS AND REFUNDS (Art Makers Denver, Inc. is referred to as “AMD”)

REGISTRATION

Registration is First Come – First Served:  Since workshop space is limited to 12 students, placement will be determined solely on the order in which your registration deposit is received.

ROOM RESERVATIONS

During registration, you will choose a room to your liking.  Room reservations are on a First Come – First Served basis.  Room sharing with other attendees is not an option, but if you are traveling with a significant other (not attending the workshop), there will be an additional cost of $500.  

PAYMENTS

Course Fee:  $4200

Deposit:  A deposit of $800 is due at time of registration along with the acceptance of AMD’s Terms and Conditions.  All deposits will be paid through the AMD website at time of registration.  We accept major credit cards (Visa, MC, Amex or Discover).  Your spot in this workshop is not guaranteed without a paid deposit of $800.

Balance Due:  The remaining balance of the course fee of $3400 (if still outstanding) will be invoiced and due by December 31, 2025.  The invoice will include a link so the balance can be paid on-line.  Please contact us if you need to make other payment arrangements.  

CANCELLATION & REFUND

If you need to cancel your workshop, please contact us directly at info@artmakersdenver.com or call 303-263-6963.  

Prior to Cut-Off Date:  Prior to December 31, 2025, any cancellation request must be made in writing and is effective upon receipt of cancellation request.  Your $800 deposit is refundable less a $100 Administration Fee prior to the cut-off date of December 31, 2025.

After Cut-Off Date: If cancellation request is received after the cut-off date of 12/31/25 any registration deposit or other fees paid CANNOT BE REFUNDED – NO EXCEPTIONS!

TRANSFERRING, SELLING, WAIT LIST TRANSFER

Transferring or Selling:  If you must cancel your enrollment and wish to transfer (or sell) your workshop(s) to someone you know, you MUST notify AMD.  You may transfer your registration to them but will be responsible for recovering any money already paid on your behalf to AMD.  Registration for the transferee will not be valid until all money transfers are complete and a Statement of Satisfaction by both parties has been received.

Wait List:  If a wait list develops for the workshop, AMD will contact the interested parties in the order they placed their name on the list.  You may transfer your registration to them but will be responsible for recovering any money already paid on your behalf to AMD.  Registration for that person will not be valid until all money transfers are complete and a Statement of Satisfaction by both parties has been received.

WORKSHOP CANCELLATION OR POSTPONEMENT BY AMD

Cancellation:  AMD reserves the right to cancel the workshop if the minimum number of participants fails to reach its threshold.  In case of unforeseen circumstances, or for any other reason whatsoever, AMD reserves the right to cancel or postpone this event. Should cancellation by AMD occur, all registrants will be contacted, and payments will be returned in full. 

Postponement:  If it is necessary to postpone the workshop, all registrants will be contacted and will have the option of a full refund or applying their payment to the new event date.

WHAT’S INCLUDED/WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED IN YOUR COURSE FEE

Includes:

• Transportation to/from Leon, Mexico (BJX) or Queretaro, Mexico (QRO) airports (both are approx. 1½  hour ride to San Miguel de Allende).  You will be dropped off at the entrance of Casa de la Noche.

• 7 nights at Casa de la Noche

• 6 days of workshop instruction at Casa de la Noche

• Marguerita party on first evening at Casa de la Noche

• All breakfasts (7 days), Lunch (3 days), Dinner (2 days – includes 1 cooking class meal and one farewell dinner at Casa de la Noche

• Two tour excursions (TBD) plus transportation

DOES NOT include:

• Airfare

• Travel Insurance

• Travel documentation or travel medical expenses

• Alcoholic Beverages

• Gratuities

POLICIES AND OTHER HELPFUL INFORMATION

Communication:  All communication from AMD will be via email. Please check your emails regularly for any changes and/or updates to the workshop schedules. Sometimes, emails of this nature could possibly land in your spam or junk file, so please check that frequently, especially as we approach the event! From time to time, it may be necessary to mail information directly to you via USPS, so it is imperative to maintain an updated physical and on-line address with us.

Passport:

• Check Passport Validity:  Confirm your passport's expiration date. Many countries require a passport valid for at least six months beyond your departure and return date. 

• Research Your Destination:  Check the U.S. Department of State's Travel Advisories for your destination's entry requirements, local laws, and safety conditions.

Trip & Travel Medical Insurance:  Due to the location and expense to travel to this event, we HIGHLY recommend you obtain travel insurance in case of any unforeseen reasons for delays or cancellation of your flights or the workshop.Your domestic health insurance, including Medicare, may offer limited or no coverage overseas. Travel medical insurance is especially important if you have pre-existing conditions, are traveling for more than six months, or are doing adventure activities.  Here is one option:  https://abctrips.com/travelinsurance

VISITING SAN MIGUEL DE ALLENDE, MEXICO

We want your trip to San Miguel to be amazing and will do everything we can to ensure a delightful experience for all attendees, but as we all know – things happen!  Outside of our commitment to you in terms of workshop expectations, our obligations to you are limited.  Please do everything you can to prepare yourself for a successful workshop by taking note of the following:

• It is your responsibility to make sure you are in adequate physical shape and in good health to solely take care of yourself during this trip. Located in central Mexico, San Miguel de Allende is around 6300’ above sea level, which provides for very pleasant weather year-round – but thinner air!  Please be aware of your exertion, hydration and alcohol intake levels!  The average highs are in the 70s, while evenings can be much cooler in the 40s.

• The Mexican culture loves to celebrate so there are intermittent fireworks that go off around the city.  If you are sensitive to these noises, each room is equipped with a set of ear plugs, or you may want to consider bringing a different option that works for you.

• Often referred to as the City of Fallen Ladies, the quaint cobblestone streets prove to be difficult to navigate unless you have good walking shoes.

• Casa de la Noche does have a water filtration in place, so it is safe to drink the water at the hotel.

• Casa de la Noche is a smoke-free and pet-free establishment.

• While most establishments (hotels and restaurants) can accept major credit cards, the smaller merchant and market vendors will require pesos.  Tips for transportation services (BajioGo. Ride and Taxis) and hotel staff might accept US dollars, but pesos are preferred.

• When entering Mexico, Customs will not allow fresh fruit or vegetables.  Please be sure to familiarize yourself on Customs rules and regulations when entering Mexico as to not incur any delays in the rest of your travel schedule.  

RISK AND LIABILITY WAIVER

Assumption of Risk:  Workshop participant acknowledges and understands that attending an art workshop involves inherent risks, including but not limited to the use of potentially hazardous materials, tools, and equipment (such as paint, solvents, cutting tools, and kilns), as well as the risk of slips, falls, and other accidents.  Participant voluntarily agrees to assume all the risks, both known and unknown, of personal injury, illness, property damage, or death that may arise from their participation in the workshop.

Waiver and Release of Liability:  In consideration for being permitted to participate in the workshop, the workshop participant (as listed below) on behalf of themselves and their heirs, assigns, and person representatives, hereby release forever discharges, and holds harmless Art Makers Denver, Inc., and its owners, agents, and representatives (“Released Parties”) from any and all claims, liabilities, demands, damages, and causes of action, of whatever kind or nature, including those arising from the negligence of the Release Parties, which may arise from or in connection with the participant’s involvement in the workshop.  

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY

Art Makers Denver, Inc. (AMD) will make every effort to notify your Emergency Contact listed below in the event of a serious illness or accident during your AMD workshop.  By signing this waiver, I give AMD permission to seek emergency medical treatment, as required on my behalf, if such notification is impossible. 

AMD will not guarantee a successful medical outcome, and I accept the inherent risks of seeking emergency medical care, such as possible adverse events.  I am financially responsible for any medical or legal bills that may be incurred because of that emergency medical treatment.  AMD will make every effort to minimize the risks inherent but will not guarantee against circumstances over which it has little or no control.  

If I have an existing injury(ies) or medical condition(s) about which medical personnel should be informed of prior to attending an AMD workshop, I will notify AMD representatives in writing; however, I understand that agents of AMD are not legally obligated to act on that information in any way or provide any medical service whatsoever to me. 

ART WORKSHOP PHOTO AND MEDIA RELEASE

I understand and agree to the following:  

• Photographs and/or videos may be used for AMD promotional and educational purposes, including advertising, social media, and website.

• I will not receive compensation from AMD for the use of my image, voice, or artwork.

• I waive the right to inspect or approve the final product used by AMD.

• I release AMD from claims related to the use of the media, including libel or invasion of privacy.

Agreement

Your signature of this document acknowledged that you have read and agreed to the conditions set forth in this Waiver and AMD’s Terms and Conditions, as part of your registration.  You will not be considered “Registered” until this document is executed and your deposit has been received.

Registered Business Address:

Art Makers Denver, Inc.
1302 S. Edison Way
Denver, CO 80222

For attendees interested in extending their experience in San Miguel, Casa de la Noche offers options, subject to availability:

https://www.casadelanoche.com/extend-your-trip

Interested? Please connect with the hotel directly:

https://www.casadelanoche.com/contact