Mentoring and instruction in copper patina art

People from all over the world, when they see our artwork, ask "How do you do that?"

We're pleased to announce that we can provide instruction and mentoring on how to create copper patina art for select students who are committed to learning what it's all about. Some artistic background is very helpful, but not required.

There are a number of factors that are critical to the success of any artwork, and there are some very unique aspects to the COPPERHAND copper patina art approaches and techniques. These approaches and techinques come out of many years of experience in working in this unusual medium, and we share those with you.

The artistic success of the work however also rests very much on a foundation in art concepts and design principles, which logically are a big part of the COPPERHAND instruction and mentoring program. So, the program is for the committed student who is serious about the undertaking.

You can be located anywhere in the world to be an accepted student. Instruction is done one-on-one using Skype™, a free service on your computer which allows voice and video contact between student and instructor.

The cost of the mentoring program is $600 per 4 hours of individual instruction and consultation, usually done in sessions of 2 hours each. The sessions are intensive, interactive and include presentation and demonstration. The content of the mentoring sessions are tailored to the needs and interests of the individual student. Additional email followup support is included during the mentoring period and for two weeks thereafter.

The mentoring program covers such topics as:

• What makes a good design?
• What are the principles that contribute to the success of a copper patina artwork?
• How do I find my personal 'voice' as an artist in this medium?
• What resources can I use to continue to grow creatively?
• What are the characteristics of copper in this art form?
• What are the differences between various oxidizing solutions and how do they behave?
• Where do I get materials and supplies?
• What are the basic and advanced techniques that can be used?
• What are the steps in preparing, creating, preserving, and finishing a work of copper patina art?

You will also find information, discussion and pictures in the COPPERHAND blog.

Take a look at the introduction to COPPERHAND founder Richard Hawk, who provides the mentoring and instruction.

Please let us know of your interest in mentoring by using the form on the Contact Us page, or call 760.504.4015.

For those who simply want to quickly try their hand with copper and patina, we offer simple kits with basic materials and instructions. You'll be able to find them here after February 15th, 2011.

Whatever your level of interest in copper patina art, we welcome you to this most exciting and unique form of expression, and know you will find it extremely enjoyable and rewarding.