Techniques for Fossil Replica Painting

Tuesday, November 10, 2026, from 11:00 am - 3:00 pm

This immersive, hands-on workshop is designed for anyone seeking to refine their skills painting fossil cast replicas to meet professional exhibition standards. The purpose of this workshop is to bridge art and science by teaching participants how fossil replicas are produced for display, study, and educational use. Through guided instruction, attendees will learn the foundations of replica making, material compatibility, and color theory, all while making their very own keepsake cast. By the end of the session, attendees will have strengthened their understanding of color theory, gained confidence in paint application techniques, and produced an exhibition-ready fossil cast that reflects both scientific accuracy and personal craftsmanship. All materials are provided, including a high-quality 3D printed fossil cast, professional-grade acrylic paints and airbrush pigments, brushes, glazing mediums, reference imagery, and sealants.

Venue: Cleveland Museum of Natural History (1 Wade Oval Dr, Cleveland, OH 44106)

Accessibility: Will be held in ADA-compliant venue with audio/visual support. Participants with chemical sensitivies are welcome to bring additional PPE beyond that provided. The VOCs involved include ethanol, propylene glycol, and photopolymer resin.

Organizer: Ellis Mulready

Cost per person: $50

Minimum and maximum number of participants: 20-40