With Becky Rehl

Date: September 15, 2019

9 am – 4 pm

Skill Level:  Some previous experience* (see note below)

Class Fee:  $80.00

This Polish paper-cutting tradition dates back to the mid-1800s, and may have its origins in the decorative snipping of sheepskins, with sheep shears, for window coverings in peasant homes.
On this day, students will progress to the Łowicz style in which several different colors are layered on a black background cut-out. These charming designs incorporate roosters, hens, and other birds, as well as stylized floral motifs. There are also intricate star-type medallions (gwiazdy). Many examples of Wycinanki will be available to inspire students who wish to try their hand at adapting and personalizing design elements.

Materials fee: (To be collected directly from students by instructor in class):  $10.00 for materials. All other supplies and equipment provided, but feel free to bring your own favorite small, sharp scissors (straight and/or curved).

Becky Rehl’s lifelong affinity for color and design flourished when she first became heavily involved with Folklore Village in the 1980’s. Meeting and learning from a wide range of traditional folk artists led to a deep respect and appreciation for folk music, dance, and the arts. Over the years, she has moved from creating in a strictly traditional style, to combining traditional techniques with her own design elements. With her business Folksnips, Becky offers both traditional style and custom designed cutouts and hearts, as well as fabric creations.

Where others often find intricate paper cutting and weaving to be tedious, Becky finds it therapeutic. Her seemingly endless patience is key to both the creation and the teaching of these folk arts. She has taught folk crafts, as well as music and dance, to thousands of school children, and has led paper folk art workshops for families and teachers, at Folklore Village and at UW Milwaukee Stringalongs.

* Students who wish to take this class, who have no prior experience, must sign up for the September 14 class, Polish style Wycinanki (Beginner), which may be found HERE.

Register for this class HERE

Registration includes your lunch.