Recent Events

We offer a variety of of highly accessible workshops on a variety of topics. Recent examples include kintsugi, sustainable wardrobe practices, jewelry, and more.

Kintsugi with Taco Matthews: Wednesday, May 31, 2023

Kintsugi Workshop Description

Inextricably linked to the Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi, the art of kintsugi celebrates the notion that nothing stays the same forever and in fact highlights the imperfections of the broken pieces we hope to pick up and put back together again. Your bowl (or plate or mug...) may seem broken, but kintsugi offers an opportunity to put it back together with 'seams of gold.'

The original technique in its truest form takes years to learn, involves intricate, iterative steps and an adhesive that, although plant-based, causes an allergic reaction in many people. In other words, it is not for the faint of heart! Since it's not feasible to truly 'teach kintsugi' in 2-hour workshop, we have designed a 'taste of kintsugi' workshop that allows both exposure to the authentic method and practical application on a small scale:

Learn about the five stages of the authentic kintsugi technique
Try the sanding and powdering stages on a ready-glued piece that Taco will prepare in advance
Consult with Taco on a piece of your own that you bring from home
Practice the filing technique on the piece you bring from home
Take home the small kintsugi plate that you've completed in the workshop or wish to finish at home
Learn where to obtain materials

This will be an exciting way to delve into this very special practice and to be able to practice it at home.

Date: Wednesday, May 31, 6:00pm - 8:00pm

Duration: Approximately 2 hours

Cost: $60 (includes materials); $45 for Mad Dog members

Maximum participants: 10

Sustainable Wardrobe Practices with Reed McLaren: Thursday, April 13, 2023

If you've ever lost a favorite wool or cashmere sweater to pesky moths, been discouraged by a "dry clean only" tag, or simply wondered how to better care for your garments so you can extend their life, then you'll want to meet Reed McLaren of The Sustainable Garment. Reed is a sustainable wardrobe pioneer and visible mending artist who pairs historical-research insights with modern-day solutions that help us truly connect with and cherish what we own.

She'll be conducting the Ties that Bind Workshop on April 13.

The Ties that Bind - Workshop with Reed McLaren - Thursday, April 13

6:00-8:30p.m. at Mad Dog

$45 for Mad Dog members; $60 for non-members

Limited spaces available!

*No refunds are given but you may send someone in your place if you let us know in advance.

Life Drawing: Wednesdays, March 8 - April 12, 2023

Life Drawing sessions at Mad Dog will start this March. The series consists of 6 sessions taking place on Wednesday evenings from 6:00pm to 8:00pm. These are not classes but rather moderated, self-guided sessions. We provide the model, a moderator and seating, as well as easels if needed (limited supply; first come, first served). Please bring your own drawing materials.

Full series: $120 for non-members; $100 for members

Maximum participation: 12 people

No refunds unless class is canceled by Mad Dog. If you are unable to attend due to an unexpected conflict or would like to share sessions with a friend, you may send someone in your place. Just let us know who to expect in advance of the session.

Life Drawing Series: Mar 8 - Apr 12

Wednesdays, 6:00-8:00 pm

Mar 8, Mar 15, Mar 22, Mar 29, Apr 5, Apr 12

Model will work through a series of poses and may be male or female.

Entire series of 6 sessions: $120 for non-members; $100 for members

Sessions are transferrable and you may send someone in your place!