"Lung Ta - Xerography and Prayers" $115

Terry L. Tyson

Beginner stamping skills minimum

"Lung Ta" is Tibetan for "wind horses" or what we commonly refer to as "Tibetan Prayer Flags". In this workshop we will learn about "Xerox-lithography", wherein a photocopy is used as a lithography plate to transfer images onto cloth or paper. This process will be used to create your own prayer flags in a variety of colors.

In the morning, we will discuss the meanings and uses of prayer flags, their design and history. Students will then create four personal flag designs using traditional design features using your own lexicon of symbols and blessings. Those designs will be photocopied and utilizing an etching press, transferred onto cloth. The 16 - 20 resulting small but colorful flags will then be attached to cords for displaying in your studio, back yard or other location to allow their good blessings to be spread to everyone.

All materials and tools needed to create the flags are included in the class fee. A field trip to a nearby copy shop may be necessary to make the litho "plates" prior to printing.

A basic artist/collage/stamping kit (images, pens, pencils, scissors, black and white images, image and word stamps, ink pads, etc) is all that is required to create your personal Lung Ta design templates, approximately 5" x 5" in size. When thinking about what images you may want to use, tradition dictates that you have a central image or symbol, surrounded by smaller symbols and/or words. It is not uncommon to see a central symbol with four smaller symbols, one in each corner of the flag. Think "blessings, best wishes, positive thoughts and good fortune" when composing your designs.

Instructor will provide all of the special tools (inks, press, chemicals, plastic plates, glue, ironing board, etc.) necessary to complete project.

Questions? Email Terry at terry.tyson@hanson.biz

Photos are representative of traditional Tibetan Prayer Flags, your designs and flags may vary.