Von der Pflanze zum Pigment
With Hanaa El Degham (artist)
What colours can we discover in the plant world? Our search for colour begins in the museum’s garden. Here, we explore how water, heat, time, oxygen and various additives are used to create different shades. From collecting the plants to dyeing fabrics and paper, we will experiment with different botanical dyeing techniques. Working with these dyes allows us to engage with natural processes in a slow and mindful way, encouraging us to view plants not merely as a resource, but as part of a living ecosystem. Through collaborative experimentation, we can produce samples that reveal the diversity of botanical colours. Some of these will appear in a collective artwork that will be developed over the course of several workshops, and will also be displayed in the exhibition.
No prior knowledge is necessary. Please bring suitable work clothes. Although the workshop will be mainly in German, we mention the languages spoken by the facilitators to make it more accessible. If you don’t feel confident in German, don’t worry — you can still take part.
Hanaa El Degham is a visual artist and artistic researcher based in Berlin and Cairo. Her transdisciplinary practice explores the intersections of art, memory and site-specific research through painting, drawing and participatory processes. Her practice engages with themes such as collective memory, identity and transformation. Since 2024, El Degham’s research has focused on plant-based colours and natural pigments. Through ongoing experimentation with locally gathered plants and traditional dyeing techniques, she develops a site-specific and ever-evolving colour palette.
We are committed to respectful interaction. Discriminatory behavior has no place at our events.
Due to the limited number of participants, please register here at Museumsdienst Berlin. Participation in public events is included with the museum admission. Meeting point: ticket counter in the foyer.