Living Color: From Plant to Textile

This immersive, hands-on workshop invites you to explore the vibrant spectrum of color hidden in the plants thriving along Esalen’s iconic coastline and within the Farm & Garden. Together, we’ll reconnect with ancient traditions of natural dyes while honoring the unique ecosystem of this sacred land.

Over  the course of the workshop, we’ll get our hands dirty and explore ways to identify local dye plants, ethically forage and harvest from nature and cultivated beds, and transform these natural materials into lasting color. From ocean-tumbled seaweed and coastal sage to marigolds and indigos grown in the garden, we will discover a palette rooted in place. You will engage in the full dyeing process — from raw plant material to finished textile.

Discover eco-dyeing, a beautiful and intuitive method that uses leaves, flowers, and bark to create direct contact prints on fabric. Using heat and pressure, these botanical forms leave behind subtle and surprising patterns, capturing the essence of the plants. Learn the art and science of mordanting, which helps natural dyes bind to cloth more effectively, and how to use a variety of natural and mineral mordants to shift color, improve fastness, and deepen tone.

Throughout the workshop, we’ll root ourselves in the rhythms of Esalen by walking the land, collecting respectfully, working outdoors, and taking time for reflection. We’ll discuss plant histories, regenerative gathering practices, and how to build a dye practice that honors both ecological cycles and artistic intuition.

Build a deeper sense of connection to the land, your materials, and the ancient human tradition of making color with plants. Participants will leave with a set of naturally dyed and eco-printed textiles, detailed recipes, and the skills to continue exploring this practice at home. 

No prior experience is needed. This workshop is open to artists, nature lovers, textile enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the intersection of creativity and ecology. Come ready to listen, experiment, and let the plants teach you.

This workshop includes an additional $50 of material fees.