Instructor - Nela Garzón

All Levels
Tuesday evenings, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
January 20 - March 3
7 weeks
$450 public / Pay-What-You-Can

Studio 1

In this class, students will be guided through a variety of mixed-media fiber art techniques inspired by rich ethnic craft traditions such as Guna molas, Otomi embroidery, and Haitian and Native American beadwork. Together, we will explore intuitive composition methods to create a vibrant and expressive wall hanging.

We’ll begin by learning the principles behind molas, the colorful reverse appliqué technique traditionally crafted by the Guna people of Panama and Colombia. Students will start by hand-stitching creative designs, then learning to cut and restitch to reveal a bold, multi-layered composition. Next, we’ll dive into embroidery techniques inspired by the vivid textiles of the Otomi people of Mexico. Using basic stitches, students will intuitively "draw" on fabric with thread, filling their shapes with color and texture to bring their compositions to life. To complete the piece, students will learn two beadwork techniques for embellishing with beads and sequins: one inspired by the dazzling drapo Vodou flags of Haiti, and another based on traditional Native American beadwork styles.

Throughout the class, students will be encouraged to work intuitively and personally, combining these global techniques to create a unique fiber art wall hanging that tells their own story.

NOTE: This course will open for registration on Monday, November 17, 2025 at 9:00 AM

This program has limited seating. For Flexible Access courses, ALH requires students to attend 70% of the scheduled classes. Failure to do so will place the student in a 6-month waitlist for future Flexible Access courses. Membership discounts are not applicable to Flexible Access courses. If a payment option isn’t available, contact the ALH School during office hours for assistance. By registering for a class at Art League Houston, you agree to the Art League School policies (please review terms and conditions before registering).