Sgraffito: Scratching Beneath the Surface

Delve into the fascinating world of sgraffito during the August 25th workshop in Santa Monica. Explore this ancient and ever-evolving art technique of literally scratching the surface with LA artist Liz Navarro. 

We are fortunate to have two very talented artists host sgraffito workshops:  Lizbeth Navarro and Kimberly LaVonne.

Lizbeth Navarro is a Los Angeles based artist born and raised in Celaya, Guanajuato, Mexico. Liz’s work is inspired by her multicultural heritage, which was always surrounded by beautiful handmade objects. Her sgraffito work blends traditional motifs with contemporary themes to deliver unique works of art.

Kimberly LaVonne is a ceramic artist based in Detroit Michigan who hand-builds forms adorned with graphic illustrations depicting parts of her Panamanian heritage. Ideas about the body, death and remembrance inspire her work that has been on exhibit both nationally and internationally. Her workshop at the Ferndale Michigan studio produced some incredible results and the participants have really embraced the technique into their own daily practice. 

The term sgraffito originates from the Italian word graffiare, which means "to scratch". True to its name, sgraffito involves scratching through a surface layer to reveal a different color beneath. This technique can be applied to painting, pottery, glass, and wall decor, making it incredibly versatile and widely celebrated. In pottery you apply multiple layers of clay, slip, or underglaze to a leather-hard pot. Once these layers are in place, scratch away parts of the top layer to reveal the hues below. The result can be strikingly beautiful, with intricate designs that play with light, shadow, and color to create a sense of depth and complexity.

While it might sound straightforward, sgraffito is far more than just scratching lines into a surface. It's an art form that requires careful consideration, patience, and practice. Here are some key elements to keep in mind: 1. Depth and Perspective: By varying the pressure and angle of your scratching tool, you can create lines of different thicknesses and depths. This not only adds texture but also brings a three-dimensional quality to your work. 2. Borders and Frames: Adding borders can completely transform the look and feel of your piece. A well-designed border can help frame your central image, drawing the viewer's eye towards the focal point and enhancing the overall aesthetic. 3. Negative Space: Sometimes, the areas you leave untouched can be just as important as the ones you scratch away. By thoughtfully removing the background or creating negative space, you can make your main subject pop and add a dramatic flair to your artwork.

The Challenges of Sgraffito

Like any art form, sgraffito comes with its own set of challenges. Here are a few hurdles you might encounter on your sgraffito journey: 1. Precision and Control: Achieving clean, precise lines requires a steady hand and a lot of practice. Any slip-up can be hard to correct, so patience is key. 2. Layer Management: Applying multiple layers of slip or underglaze can be tricky. Each layer needs to be just the right consistency and dryness. Too wet, and your layers will blend together; too dry, and they might chip or crack. 3. Tool Selection: Different tools create different effects. Experimenting with various implements like needles, knives, or even custom-made tools can help you find the perfect fit for your artistic vision.

Sgraffito is a beautiful blend of artistry and technique, offering endless possibilities for creative expression. While the challenges can be daunting, working together in a workshop makes it fun and the rewards are so fulfilling. So sign up for Liz's workshop today:  let's go!   

If you can't make it, check out our other workshops in Santa Monica, DTLA or Ferndale.  We'll see you in the sudio!