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Next cohort in 2025. Join my mailing list for updates.

Guided projects using the techniques learned in the first Backgrounds and Textures course, with an emphasis on composition and layering.

 Filling up the creative toolbox is fun and the best of all possible play times...

I have three drawers piled with samples from experiments, but if you’re like me, the question becomes Now What?

Backgrounds and Textures: Complex Compositions

is the answer to the “Now What?” question.

Our focus will include, but not be limited to:

  • Four approaches for building effective backgrounds

  • How to combine numerous elements into one integrated composition

  • Focal point and radial balance as design strategies

  • Assembling the composition and overprinting it

  • Analyzing colors so that they work together

  • Sizing individual components to contribute the illusion of depth on a flat surface

  • Placement strategies that work within the composition – and why

  • Four ways to use shading and value to add dimension and depth

  • Choosing and creating design elements to build work thematically

  • Finding meaning and telling stories with your work

  • Identifying and sourcing design elements

Learn to plan, adjust and improvise for stronger compositions.

Is the background busy and complex or quiet and low-key?

What’s the next step — color, size, shape?

What’s your preference? Abstract, figurative, non-representational or a combination of both or all three?

Practice analyzing your work, to improve balance and cohesion.

Become knowledgeable about different approaches to composition, including focal point, radial balance and crystallographic composition.

What happens when a piece needs one more touch? Adding that final element can pull it all together.

In-depth guides and videos.

  • 16+ lessons released over eight weeks

  • PDF notes and appendix

  • Private online community where you can share work and ask questions

  • Three live Q&A sessions with Jane during the workshop plus a final show and tell session!

Every lesson set comes with notes you can download for easy reference.

What students are saying about my online workshops…

"Loved taking your class, carefully researched, simply presented, loads of content for embellishing.

It was well worth the price. I have had a learning curve with this process which was unexpected, I usually pick up stuff quickly but this was on a whole different level for me.”

— Shawn D.

Backgrounds & Textures

“I just want you to know how much I appreciate the time and effort you put into your classes.

I have taken a few online classes with other instructors but none as professional or informative as yours. The knowledge and skill I am getting is so rewarding for me. I am also appreciative that you are not watching a clock during our zoom meetings - you always make sure all our questions are answered.

I am not hesitant or intimidated to ask any question and that is due to your calm demeanor and patience!!

— Martha M.

Background & Textures and Dye Mastery

Bonus Lectures!

The Stage Play Analogy

53 minutes

My Stage Play Analogy is a straightforward way to think about the elements that make up your compositions.

What you are really doing is the equivalent of writing a play, or film script. You audition elements! Some are background, some are supporting cast members and a few are the stars, or focal points! In this entertaining video, I walk through how to think about your cast of characters so that your visual creations will be Oscar-worthy.

Contrast & Relationship

90 minutes

Contrast and relationship are the fundamental backbones of great composition.

In this lecture, I talk about the attributes of both, how they relate to and support each other, and how to think about introducing them into your work, whether you are a mixed media artist, someone who sticks to a paper, or a textile enthusiast.

This was originally a paid lecture I gave in 2022, so you get the benefit of attending free and listening to the Q&A at the end! Of course, I'm always available in our private community to answer questions too!

Available at registration.

And also…

Finding Meaning and Telling Stories with Your Work

Identifying and Sourcing Design Elements that Have Meaning for You

Available after class begins.

Eight-week workshop with projects released weekly and two work weeks.

Work at your own pace - all content is yours to keep forever.

PLUS…

  • A private online members area for those enrolled in the course. Ask questions, share your results and learn from others!

  • Three live one hour Q&A sessions with Jane and a final show and tell hour! Recorded for future reference.

  • Having the techniques of B&T under your belt will certainly help in this class, but is not required.

    This new course isn’t so much about using techniques I taught in the previous Backgrounds and Textures course. Of course we WILL use some of those, but anyone with some printing, textile or mixed media experience could sign up and benefit from all of the theoretical stuff I want to talk about.

  • Hybrid courses follow a live schedule and are made up of materials such as pre-recorded videos, live events and Q&As, PDF’s and presentations that each student can work through at their own speed.

    The lessons in this class are pre-recorded and released on Mondays. Live Q&As and Show and Tell session dates are listed above and on the syllabus.

  • We host our classes on Circle, an all-in-one community platform. 

    Unlike social media platforms, Circle:

    • Doesn’t have ads or distractions. Forget Facebook ads and notifications. We’re building a community where we can connect away from the noise.

    • Allows us to house everything in one place. With Circle, we’re able to keep  all community activity—discussions, resources, events, courses, chat, and more—in one easy-to-navigate place. This means that you only need to navigate one platform in order to take full advantage of your membership.

    You will have lifetime access to our class platform, lessons and community area after class ends.

  • Download the supply list here and watch this guide to prepping for class.