Step into the fascinating world of tessellation and discover how artists create intricate, repeating patterns that transform across a surface. In this hands-on workshop, you’ll learn the core techniques behind M.C. Escher’s iconic designs and apply them to create your own original artworks. We explore a range of pattern traditions, from Ottoman geometric design to contemporary textile repeats before focusing on Escher’s distinctive approach to interlocking forms. Guided step by step, you’ll build both technical understanding and creative confidence. Perfect for beginners and creative enthusiasts alike, this workshop blends art, logic and imagination in a highly satisfying way.
- Introduction to Tessellating Patterns
- Slideshow of examples of tessellating patterns from History
- Introductory starting activity challenge to create tessellation for a set of resources I supply
- Analysing and identifying contemporary repeats
- Outlining the importance of colour choice and placement within a repeat.
- Demonstration of MC Escher Method 1 - Students then create their own based on this.
- Demonstration of MC Escher Method 2 - Students then create their own based on this.
By the end of the course the students will be able to identify a range of tessellation repeats from a historical and contemporary perspective - including those of the Ottoman Empire and commercial textile designs . They will have applied their knowledge to create 2 A3 artworks in the style of MC Escher and use that knowledge to create future works.
- 3x A4 card (any colour - any gsm between 160-240gsm)
- 3x A3 cartridge paper white
- 1 sheet of A4 Tracing Paper
- Masking Tape
- HB Pencil
- 30cm Ruler
- Paper Scissors
IMPORTANT: Please arrive to the first class with all the relevant materials. A lack of materials is not just a handicap to you but to the ability to teach. Materials cost is not included in a course fee. In the event of a course being cancelled WEA cannot be held responsible for the purchase of any course materials. We therefore suggest you purchase your materials closer to the time of the course commencing.
The following stockists are examples of places where you can purchase art materials for your course:
- Art on King: 199-201 King Street, Newtown. Ph: 9516 2342
- Eckersley's Art and Craft Store: 93 York Street, Sydney. Ph: 9299 4151. Also located in various locations throughout Greater Sydney. WEA students receive a 10% discount on materials required for their course at the York Street store when showing their course confirmation email.
- Parkers Art Supplies: 3 Cambridge Street, The Rocks. Ph: 9247 9979
- The Art Scene: 914 Victoria Road, West Ryde. Ph: 9807 6900
- The Sydney Art Store: 11 Salisbury Street, Botany. Ph: 9699 2162
You can also purchase materials from places such as Dymocks, Officeworks, Spotlight, Lincraft or online art suppliers such as Art Shed Online.
