Learn the basics of natural dyes in this one-day workshop.

Inspired by the permaculture principles of re-use and zero waste, join artist Johanna Tagada Hoffbeck to learn the basics of natural dyes and reveal a palette of colours from plant-based kitchen waste, such as onion and garlic skins, tea, carrot peel and avocado pits.

This workshop is directly inspired by the method Johanna employs in her series of collaborative installations, ‘Penser, Manger, Partager’ (‘To Think, To Eat’ To Share’) (2015-present). Johanna will also share her experience growing and foraging plants responsibly.

It is an entry-level adult-only workshop, and no prior experience is required. The method can be repeated at home, with no additional material purchased other than what is found on most kitchen shelves.

All materials and a tea break will be provided.

This workshop includes and participants will return home with:

A short history of natural dyes.
Demonstration of the creation of two colours using natural dyes.
Knowledge of how to safely repeat the process and create natural dyes at home.
Two natural dye samples.
Basic fabric knowledge.
Knowledge of non-toxic mordants.
Knowledge of plant-based cooking waste and plants to use as natural dyes.
Basic knowledge of plants which can be safely and responsibly foraged in England as natural dyes.
Knowledge of a selection of plants that can be grown in small home gardens in England for natural dyes.
Inspiration for natural practices and fabric care.

The Artist Images

The Artist

Johanna Tagada Hoffbeck (b. 1990, France) is a transdisciplinary artist based in rural Oxfordshire. Her practice, rooted in ecological awareness, spans painting, sculpture, photography, publishing, horticulture, and participatory projects.

Johanna’s work expresses care and tenderness, reflecting on the fragility and beauty of life. Recent solo exhibitions include Dreaming About Tomorrow at Nidi Gallery, Tokyo (2022). Group exhibitions include Soil at Somerset House, London (2025), The Equal Right to Live and Blossom at Kate MacGarry, London (2024), One Foot in the Sky at Contemporary Sculpture Fulmer, UK (2023), and Edge Effects at Whitechapel Gallery, London (2024).

Johanna tends two allotment plots in rural Oxfordshire, where, inspired by natural farming and following veganic permaculture principles, herbs, vegetables, fruits, flowers, dyes, and medicinal plants are often grown from organic seeds. She has learned about Natural Dyes during her childhood in rural Alsace (France) from her grandmother and later while living in India and travelling to Japan. For over a decade now, Johanna has focused on exploring botanical dyes on reclaimed cellulose fabrics in several of her art projects, of which the series ‘Penser, Manger, Partager’ is perhaps most well-known. Johanna continues to learn and explore natural dyes in England and during her travels.

In addition, Johanna founded the collaborative initiative The Gardening Drawing Club and Poetic Pastel Press. She is the cofounder of the printed publication series Journal du Thé – Contemporary Tea Culture. She has organised and facilitated workshops and learning programs for adults and children at multiple British art institutions, including Camden Art Centre.

Introduction to Natural Dyes Workshop

Learn the basics of natural dyes in this one-day workshop.

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