
An Ecological Dip into Fungi Dyes of Catalina Island
Feb. 15 @ 9:00 am - 1:30 pm

What natural colors might be experienced from the mycological landscape of Catalina Island? California is a vast biodiversity hotspot hosting different species of fungi across all of its variable habitats: from its wettest coastal forests, to its isolated islands, driest deserts, and beyond. Dip into mushroom dyeing and consider how natural color can inspire us to look more closely at our local environments and encourage stewardship of our critical native habitats.
Hosted at the Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden, this workshop will be led by Elissa Callen, an ecological artist known for her work with natural pigments and conservation. Participants will learn how to dye with local species of fungi through an ecologically-grounded approach. They will also take home samples of mushroom-dyes concocted together in class and dye their own silk scarf.
The class will include:
⁕ Short hike to consider fungi within urban versus native landscapes
⁕ Ethics, ecology, and stewardship for natural color harvesting
⁕ Introduction to select local dye fungi species
⁕ Fungi dye processing and tips on hue maximizing
⁕ Overview on tools and materials
⁕ Color stretching and modification techniques
⁕ Reference resources for continued research in mycology and color from fungi
What to Bring:
⁕ Comfortable shoes
⁕ Water bottle
⁕ Notebook and pen/sketchbook
⁕ Sunhat/sunscreen
⁕ Overview on tools and materials
⁕ Optional: Extra funds for dyeing additional scarves (if time and supplies allow)
Pricing:
- Members and Avalon Residents: $76.00
- Non-members: $95.00
About the Instructor:
Elissa Callen is an ecological artist using natural pigments made from invasive plant species and wild fungi to observe alternative ways humans can closely attune to and engage with our environments. Her research is rooted in California ecology, conservation, anthropogenic environmental influences, and the impact invasive species have on native biodiversity. The lens of her practice is also integrally informed by her professional background as a horticulturist and landscape designer, as well as her BFA education in painting.
She has taught with institutions throughout California including Fibershed, California College of the Arts, Point Reyes National Seashore, Theodore Payne Foundation, numerous mycological societies, and is on the board of Sonoma County Mycological Association. She believes in using her work with sustainable natural materials as a means of increasing community interest in environmentalism, preservation, and connectedness to the native landscape.
Website: http://elissacallen.com
IG: @slateandrust
Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden