Cochineal Pigment Painting

Dive into the fascinating world of natural color at this hands-on Cochineal Pigment Painting workshop. Guests will learn about the cochineal insect and the rich carmine pigment it produces—an iconic dye that has been used for centuries in Renaissance art, Indigenous textiles, and beyond.
Participants will create their own paint pigment using cochineal insects, explore how organic materials can shift and transform color, and craft their own Insecta-inspired artwork. The experience also includes a guided tour of the Insecta: Small Wonders exhibit, offering deeper insight into the tiny creatures behind this brilliant hue.
The workshop runs from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and costs $25, or $20 for IMAS Members. Museum admission is included with registration. Space is limited, so advanced registration is encouraged to secure your spot in this unique and creative afternoon at IMAS.