From Earth to Art: Painting with Natural Pigments, Inspired by George Washington Carver

Join Kenya Miles, founder of Blue Light Junction, for a virtual workshop exploring earth pigments, local plants, and the creative legacy of George Washington Carver. Participants will paint a preprinted bandana featuring Carver, plants and other imagery from his practice, using earth pigments. With hands-on guidance, Kenya will introduce participants to plants that yield colors and how to utilize pigments in paint form, while Museum Curator Jeanelle K. Hope shares insights into Carver’s practice of experimentation and ingenuity at Tuskegee University.

This workshop is presented in support of the National Museum of African American History and Culture’s traveling exhibition, At the Vanguard: Making and Saving History at HBCUs.

Who this workshop is for:
• Families and intergenerational groups who want to create together, as well as
• individuals curious about natural dyes, earth pigments, and local plant knowledge
• Beginners and experienced practitioners
• Anyone looking to deepen their connection to material-based practices and learn more about Carver’s legacy

For Inquiries, please email NMAAHCEngage@si.edu