Learning to Batik like Barbara Leighton Workshop

Description: Discover the Magic of Batik! This workshop introduces the textile art of batik, an ancient technique using layers of wax and dye to reveal beautiful patterns on fabric. Batik was one of Barbara Leighton’s most cherished art forms, and her work is proudly displayed in our museum today. Held in our historic Schoolhouse Art Studio, this workshop will be led by our very own Joanne Smith, whose teaching reflects the care and generosity that defined Barbara’s approach. Joanne’s own connection to batik began with a school field trip to the Leighton Art Centre in 1978. With warmth and guidance, Joanne will lead participants through each step of the process. This workshop invites you to slow down, create with care, and experience batik in the spirit of Barbara Leighton and the Leighton Art Centre.

Audience: 16+

Level of Experience: This workshop is suitable for those with no batik experience and those who vaguely remember learning batik way back when in art class! 

Supply List: 

Participants need to bring/ purchase

• Dye-resistant gloves (multiples if disposable)
• Close-toed shoes
• Project ideas or photographs (optional)
• Lunch, snack, & water bottle

Registration cost: $95

Did you know that Members of the Leighton Art Centre get 10% off the registration cost of all workshops and kids’ summer camps? Please visit https://leightoncentre.org/join-us/become-a-member/.

*Please note that the fee for this workshop includes admittance to our historic museum , walking paths and art gallery on the property, which can be enjoyed at your own discretion after the workshop is completed. Leighton Centre is a proud non-profit organization that relies on donations to help meet demanding operational costs. We appreciate your contribution by attending our workshops and other events that allow us to continue thriving!

Time: 9:30 am – 4 pm.

Artist/ Instructor Biography: For batik artist Joanne Smith (BEd, BBS) of Diamond Valley, Alberta, creating art in a diversity of forms has been a lifelong passion; inherited from generations of highly creative women, and deeply inspired by a school field trip to Leighton Art Centre in 1978. Her fascination with batik was re-sparked a few years ago when she taught the technique to her high school art students. Since then, she has travelled around North America taking workshops to enhance her skills under the tutelage of various Batik Masters. She has written articles for The Batik Guild and has had her batiks featured in their newsletters and calendars. Her batik entry received honourable mention in the 2024/25 International Year of Batik competition and is featured on their website.

Cancellation and Refund Policy: Please note there is a NO REFUND policy on all Leighton Art Centre workshops. A refund will only be issued to participants if the workshop is cancelled by the workshop coordinator due to insufficient enrollment or extreme weather conditions. Workshops may be cancelled prior to the start date and participants will be notified via email and/or phone, and a full refund will be processed.