Thank you for considering me for a workshop or presentation. You are welcome to email me with any queries or requests. I am open to tailoring a program that suits your needs.
Workshops
I have developed a portfolio of project-based and technique-driven patchwork and quilting classes for teaching at shops or private venues on the Central Coast, in the greater Sydney metropolitan area and beyond. My focus is on free form piecing, striking designs and the effective use of colour so as to promote fun and encourage the creative confidence of my students.
I particularly enjoy the energy and enthusiasm of retreat and symposium-style gatherings. Past assignments include the Australasian Quilt Convention (2009, 2010, 2013 and 2020), Quilt Encounter (2010 and 2012), AQS Quilt Week Paducah (2013), European Patchwork Meeting (2014), Grampian Textures (2017), Pacific International Quilt Festival (2018) and New Zealand Quilt Symposium (2015, 2017 and 2019).
Here is an overview of some of the classes available. The workshops are suitable for all levels and are generally structured as one-day (six hour) classes. Some can be extended to two-day classes. Have a look at my schedule of forthcoming workshops and presentations.
Click on images for workshop descriptions on my main design and teaching website or download my Serendipity Patchwork & Quilting Workshops Brochure.
View the Serendipity Student Gallery.
Lectures
The Art of Curating
The art of curating brings three distinct imperatives: to select; to organise; and to look after items in an exhibition. Drawing upon more than 12 years’ experience in exhibition administration, including several popular international touring exhibits, independent curator Brenda Gael Smith reflects on the highlights and challenges of these imperatives providing insights and takeaway tips for both artists and exhibition organisers.
Technology & Your Creative Practice
Sometimes artists and technology seem like oil and water – they just don’t mix – but it doesn’t need to be that way! In this presentation, Brenda reviews useful tools, skills and resources to complement your creative practice. From digital photography to setting up an online presence; time management to exhibition planning; and more!
Driven to Abstraction
Brenda creates textile works made from a rich palette of her hand-dyed fabrics complemented by intensive stitching. Much of her work is inspired by the colour and patterns of the natural world with a focus on her surroundings at the “other” Copacabana in Australia and her New Zealand homeland. Using a process of abstraction, Brenda strives to capture the essence of her subjects in simplified form. Working improvisationally, she refines line, shape, colour and texture to evoke a sense of place, express an idea, highlight an issue or elicit an emotional response. Learn more about Brenda’s inspiration and process in this colourful lecture.
Copyright in the 21st Century
This introductory lecture covers copyright fundamentals for the 21st century creative in Australia. What is copyright? what does it apply to? how long does it last? what are the exceptions? enforcement and so on. The lecture also addresses some frequently asked questions and common issues such as:
- Quilt Show Photography & Online Sharing Guidelines
- incorporating copyrighted materials such as images and quotes into your work
- exhibiting quilts made from patterns or “inspired by” other people’s designs
- proper use of patterns
- patterns and templates found on the internet
- proper use of workshop handouts
- teaching from other people’s patterns or work
