Simply stunning in muted hues and basic forms, the mixed media collage paintings of this tenured artist attest to the power of symbolism, storytelling and, most of all, the self.

Storer says her paintings are part of an evolution, beginning with an idea that is always subject to change. "Sometimes I let the painting take me on the journey," she says. "After all, much of it comes from the subconscious area, so who can know for sure where it will go. I don't paint from reality, it's more from the inner world."

Discovering this inner consciousness to create artwork will be at the core of Storer's hands-on workshop, "Mixed Media and Collage," at Villa Montalvo on Jan. 31.

The class is part of Montalvo's "Art in the Barn" series, which will give practicing artists the opportunity to meet Storer, as well as learn techniques for two- and three-dimensional works.

Artists will bring their own items for collage, ready for whatever Storer decides to throw at them. "If I give the outline [of the class] then the surprise element is lost and people will come to the workshop with an agenda—not a good idea for them," she says.

"The workshop will be showing ways for each person, through the varied use of materials, to make their own imagery," Storer says. "I am only the guide. I will try and raise the curtain and help them get inside themselves."

The second of eight workshops held at the historic barn, the class will not only help students with their own work, but also to understand the mediums Storer uses in her exhibit, "Inez Storer: Encore Narratives," on display at the Montalvo gallery.

"It's remarkable to have her work here and to see how she creates this wonderful world that is really her own," says Montalvo's art director, Michele Rowe-Shields. "There is a sense of raw emotion and honesty in her work—a directness without artifice. She uses child like imagery to a great effect."

Finding an artist who can also teach is even more special, Rowe-Shields says. "The students coming to attend the class will not create Inez Storer's, but they will have access to all that she brings to the process of creation and take their understanding of her work to another level," she says.

"It's extraordinary to have an exhibit artist teach. Not every artist is a great teacher and Inez is a benefit of both to us," Rowe-Shields says.

Storer has been teaching at universities throughout California since 1968, most recently at the San Francisco Art Institute, where she was a faculty member from 1981 to 1999.

Storer says she teaches not only to inspire students, but for herself as well. "Teaching is usually a revelatory experience for me ... I am usually surprised by what others do, and I learn too."

The Mixed Media and Collage workshop will be held from noon to 5 p.m. at Villa Montalvo. The cost is $150 for members and $175 for non-members. For availability or more information, call 408.961.5858. Villa Montalvo is located at 15400 Montalvo Road in Saratoga. A schedule of "Art in the Barn" workshops can be viewed at http://www.villamontalvo.org.