Salt Lake City, Sept. 1, 2021- Craft Lake City and the Natural History Museum of Utah are pleased to announce three new virtual DIY workshops inspired by the special exhibition Egypt: The Time of Pharaohs, on display through January 2, 2022. This workshop series presents attendees with the unique pleasure of learning a new skill while engaging with a passionate local instructor and other students in real time. Attendees will enjoy educational content in the form of historical tie-ins as they create a custom hand-crafted item inspired by life in ancient Egypt. Supply kits are available for pickup through the Natural History Museum of Utah, and workshop instruction is provided virtually from the comforts of home. Pre-registration is required, and spaces are limited.
Eco-Printing With Gold Leaf
Part art, part science, and part mystery: learn how to make beautiful botanical prints on paper in this virtual eco-printing workshop. Students will follow along on Zoom from their home kitchens as instructor Sunny Smith of Temple O Flora walks through the steps of preparing the cotton paper, selecting leaves and flowers for striking results, and using different techniques for eco-printing projects. After steaming the botanical bundles, students will unveil their creations to discover what the plants have expressed during their alchemical journey. As they dry, Sunny will discuss the history of gold beating and the origins of alchemy in Alexandria, Egypt. At the end of class, attendees will add finishing touches to their botanical masterpieces with gold leaf embellishments.
Kyphi Incense: Fragrance of the Gods
Discover the rich history and significance of kyphi, an aromatic offering in the lives of ancient Egyptians, while hand-crafting your own custom incense blend. Students will examine a translated hieroglyphic recipe for incense found within temple walls and learn about many of the raw materials used through the kingdoms. Instructor Sunny Smith will then guide virtual attendees through the process of constructing their own version of a kyphi formula from the comfort of home, utilizing traditional materials as well as some bioregional ingredients wildcrafted in Utah. Attendees will warm handmade kyphi incense over charcoal in a ceramic cup created by Mean Mugs Pottery. Finally, attendees will use some of their new kyphi to create an infused oil.
Lotus Amulet Clay Earrings
Create your own contemporary statement earrings inspired by Ancient Egypt and learn the art of making polymer clay jewelry from local artisan Studio Ramiii. A master in her craft, instructor Nicole Morris will provide students with highly specialized tips on working with polymer clay to achieve consistent, high-quality results at home, while utilizing various clay-working techniques to create texture and bold shapes. Participants will also learn about the significance of the lotus flower in Egyptian culture, while gaining insight into the rich historical importance of jewelry in ancient times. Attendees will have the opportunity to interact with the instructor in real time, gaining feedback and guidance as they create in their homes.
Craft Lake City is excited to partner with the Natural History Museum of Utah to present our fall/winter 2021 virtual workshop programming, in keeping with the latest NHMU special exhibition, Egypt: The Time of Pharaohs! This exhibit takes visitors into the distant past, exploring the myths and realities of ancient Egyptian culture.
More than 5,000 years ago, Egypt’s fascinating pharaohs led one of the world’s most advanced and preeminent civilizations. They built magnificent pyramids and temples and produced extraordinary art and cultural splendor, which spawned a mythical reputation that now captivates peoples’ imagination around the globe.
Featuring more than 350 original artifacts, some more than 4,500 years old, Egypt: The Time of Pharaohs sheds new light on spheres of life along the fertile Nile Valley—from everyday people to their dynastic rulers. Detailed models of famed pyramids, temples and Egyptian homes, as well as extensive multimedia overlays, films, and interactives guide visitors through the fantasy and facts of ancient Egypt.
For more information about this special exhibit and to purchase museum tickets, please visit the NHMU website here.