Dye Workshop Series with AIRS Aida Tejada & Debora Rosental

Florida’s native plants provide a palette for painting and dyeing in a hands-on workshop at Deering Estate. Led by artists-in-residence Aida Tejada and Debora Rosental on Sunday, November 8, the beginner-friendly session introduces techniques for preparing and working with natural pigments.

A guided demonstration covers plant-based paints, color formulas and the variations produced by different species, alongside an introduction to the plants’ traditional uses in natural dyeing. Participants will create a sampler of color studies, then use stencils and hand-applied pigments to design a personalized artwork.

Dominican-born Tejada works with natural and reclaimed materials to explore memory and reconstruction. Miami-based Argentinian artist Rosental brings a background in biochemistry and cellular biology to weaving, embroidery and experimental dyeing. Both contributed to a publication documenting South Florida’s native plants and natural dyes.

The workshop costs $20+, including all materials. Participants take home the artworks they create.