Maria Geary - Durham Arts Council

Relaxing In Art

Maria is a mixed media and fiber artist with a passion for art journaling. She enjoys the freedom of using everyday household supplies “just to see what happens.” Her creative practice and business Relaxing In Art, is a word play of her nickname, ‘Ria. It serves as a reminder that creating art can be a form of relaxing. As a teaching artist, she stresses playfulness to reflect, relate and release to create. ARTS-CURRICULUM INTEGRATION: (VISUAL ART) (MIXED MEDIA) (HEALTHY LIVING) (LANGUAGE ARTS)

Residency Mixed Media Art Journaling - Just For Me!

GRADES: 5-12, adults

In this residency, students will learn a simple bookbinding technique to create their own journal. As an introduction to mixed media art, they will explore approaches using different mediums such as crackle paste, heavy gesso, or molding paste. The importance of journaling is discussed, and they will be encouraged to write out their thoughts freely in their journal. To inspire this, Maria will teach a variety of creative practices using acrylic paints, stencils, and household items. This residency can be modified for Art and English classes.

Max Participants: 30

Duration: 45-60 minutes per session; artist recommends a minimum of two sessions for this residency.

Special Requirements: Large tables for students to work; adequate sink/water source to accommodate rinse buckets; a regular classroom can be used with modified supplies; space to allow artwork to dry.(to share supplies); access to water to refill rinse buckets; volunteer to assist those that may struggle with a technique

Fee: $187.50 per residency session + supplies (average $10.00 per student) + planning and prep fee ($100);