Step into safariiiCAMP for a 3-hour hands-on workshop exploring the craft and history of leatherworking. In this session, you’ll learn how to design and create your own custom belt from start to finish.
Your instructor, Colby, is an experienced leatherworker specializing in belts, bags, wallets, and custom pieces. He’ll guide you through the fundamentals of working with leather cutting, shaping, and finishing while sharing insight into the material’s history and uses. Will will also be present to support the class, bringing a strong background in sewing to help you incorporate stitching techniques or combine materials into your design.
By the end of the workshop, you’ll leave with a deeper understanding of leather as a craft and your own finished belt to take home.
All tools and materials are provided.
Classes are on Thursdays from 6pm-9pm.
Participants will:
★ Receive high quality painting materials and additional studio time
★ Thoughtfully connect to their subject matter of choice (plant and animal focused)
★ Create dynamic compositions
★ Use technology to expedite the design and transfer process
★ Use bold, expressive color combinations based in color theory
★ Receive step-by-step guidance to create a finished 16” x 20” painting over six weeks
★ Receive supplemental exercises to improve their techniques (optional)
To get the most out of the experience and complete your final piece, students should plan to dedicate 1-4+ hours of independent work outside of class each week. Various levels and art styles are welcome.
Teacher Bio:
Nadya Voynovskaya (they/them)
12+ years painting & community mural experience
7+ years teaching experience - known for creating inclusive, engaging spaces where students can build skill, confidence and community
Values humor, kindness, cultural competency, growth through creative challenges
Queer immigrant artist
Wednesdays
July 15, 22, 29, august 5, 12, 19
6:00-8:30 pm
A one time workshop on Saturday, June 27th from 3-6pm.
Through demonstrations and hands-on practice, students will learn how to create a small chainmail pennant as a sculptural wall hanging. The workshop will focus on the traditional European weave, with all rings, hardware, and tools provided. Participants will create a form of their choosing and, by the end of the workshop, leave with a finished piece and a solid foundation in chainmail techniques that can be applied to future personal designs.
Materials Provided (all materials may be kept after the workshop)
• (2) Flat-nose pliers
• Assorted 11.4 mm aluminum jump rings (provided in quantities sufficient to complete your project)
• (1) 8 mm × 200 mm stainless steel threaded rod
• (2) Stainless steel acorn nuts
• (2) Chrome hanging hooks
• Optional steel beads for added decoration
About the Instructors
Maddi Minicozzi & Gail Minicozzi:
Sisters Gail & Maddi Minicozzi bring together complementary practices rooted in craft, material exploration, and object-making. Gail is the founder of Holy Gail, a Brooklyn-based fashion and accessory brand whose work explores the intersection of metal, glass, and fabric through contemporary interpretations of traditional techniques. Her practice balances form, function, and meticulous detail while embracing a sense of play and whimsy.
Maddi is a Brooklyn-based creative director, curator, and artist whose work centers on material translation and tactile storytelling. Through sculptural objects and immersive environments, she investigates texture, labor, memory, and permanence, exploring how materials can carry emotional weight and evidence of touch over time. She is currently leading the development of the Brooklyn chapter of safariiicamp and is a resident of the safariiicamp creative community.
Together, they approach chainmail from different perspectives Gail through adornment, fashion, and wearable objects, and Maddi through sculpture, space, and material experimentation. This workshop reflects the overlap of their practices, inviting participants to explore chainmail as both a decorative craft and a sculptural medium.