Making Soil Into Paint

“Nietzsche has expressed that very beautifully: ‘You shall become friends of the immediate things.’ And the immediate things are this earth, this life.” -C. G. Jung

Saturday May 30

3pm-4:30pm

High Park

What are earth pigments? How do we find and process them? Join us for a hands-on paint-making workshop!

In this session, the participants will learn how to process raw earth materials by grinding, washing and drying to achieve fine pigments that are suitable for paint-making. Together we will investigate both natural and waste colour sources in our surrounding area to find ochre (iron-oxide earth pigment).

During the first half of the workshop, the artist Gizem Candan will demonstrate the full process of pigment and paint-making. Then, the participants will have the chance to make their own water-colour paint using fine earth pigments and gum arabic solution.

Participants will also receive handouts with detailed explanations of the paint-making process, including a basic recipe, a list of materials, and some safety instructions.

Curated by Holly Chang

Facilitated by Gizem Candan

This workshop is offered in conjunction with Soil Study by sarah koekkoek

Inspiration for this includes:

Workshop, Ecology, Ground Relay

cUraTor & Artist

Holly Chang

Holly Chang is a Toronto based artist, curator, and researcher. Her practice is focused on topics of hybridity, craft, and ecology.

Gizem Candan

Gizem Candan is a visual artist and curator with a focus on painting, bio materials, pigments and ecology.

acCessibilIty

Is the venue wheelchair accessible?

We will be on a paved path and picnic area within High Park.

Will the event be ASL Interpreted?

All live events will offer ASL interpretation (upon request). Please contact us to request ASL Interpretation.

Will the event be described for Blind and low vision audiences?

This performance does not include audio description.

otheR eveNts

Soil Study

Soil Study is an ongoing series of discursive experiments, processes, interventions and conversations between the human body and soil memory.

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May 30, 2026 - May 31, 2026

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Walk High Park with photographer Zackery Hobler as he points out evidence of prescribed burning, discusses the process, and how it benefits the park’s black oak savannah.

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May 31, 2026 - May 31, 2026

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Guests are invited to spend an afternoon in conversation and visiting with one another, inspired by Indigenous relational practices.

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May 30, 2026 - May 30, 2026