Learn the alchemical history and practice of botanical distilling with Syd Buffman and Eliza Swann

This class will introduce you to the wonderful world of botanical distilling, an ancient process that is still used to create hydrosols and essential oils today. Together we will set up a traditional copper alembic still - the same kind that ancient alchemists used. As the still works its magic revealing the plant’s essence and aroma, we’ll investigate the alchemical history of distillation as well as the philosophical and practical uses of this ancient craft. Everyone will leave with their own 1 oz hydrosol. This class is facilitated by Syd Buffman and Eliza Swann.

Sydney Buffman is a multidisciplinary artist in Los Angeles, California. She has a background in art direction/design, perfumery, incense making, and herbalism. She started SYD Botanica in 2015 making handmade incense. Sydney has worked on perfumery commissions for design institutions such as the Stanford d. School and CodaWorx. She is also a founding member of the Coalition of Sustainable Perfumery (COSP). Her creative work is heavily influenced by psychology, science, spirituality, and play. She believes that perfumers are astronauts of the subconscious.

Eliza Swann is an interdisciplinary artist, intuitive, writer, and educator based in New York City and Twentynine Palms, CA. Eliza received a BA in Painting from the San Francisco Art Institute, and an MFA from Central St. Martins in London. They are currently teaching alchemy at the Pratt Institute. Eliza founded the Golden Dome School in 2014 as an educational and curatorial platform for artists to explore mysticism.

This event is in support of BOILING AND DIVINE: Art and Alchemy with the Golden Dome School on view in the Hansell Gallery from 9/17-10/15 on view Tuesday-Friday 12-6pm.