COURSE OVERVIEW & TOPICS

Turning plant fibres into a functional and attractive basket is not only immensely satisfying but it nurtures our connections; with the land, through intuitive natural fibre handling knowledge and with time, to one of the oldest known crafts in the history of human civilization. Whilst basket weaving styles and materials used vary depending on location, the technique of ‘twining’ fibres together to create a basket is common in many cultures across the globe.

In this workshop, create your own small ‘twined’ basket using locally gathered plant fibres. The day will include a wander through the park to identify suitable plants for weaving, as well as a discussion on the history of traditional and contemporary basket making.

TRAINER PROFILE

Caroline Hawkins is a sculptural fibre artist, basket weaver and tutor, based on the Surfcoast. Trained in 3D design in London, she has been creating and teaching art for 30 years.

A fascination for weaving with natural materials threads a common theme through Caroline’s work which she harvests from her surrounding environment. Development opportunities have included learning from indigenous weavers and several overseas trips to learn basket weaving from other cultures. Often to discover that weaving methods are similar across cultures, except the materials vary as they relate to what’s available locally.

She is passionate about sharing her knowledge with others, believing that practicing art and crafts can form an important part of a person’s identity and support their wellbeing.

WHAT TO BRING & EXPECT

What you will learn

The ancient craft of basketry

How to start, shape and finish a basket using the twining technique

How to identify, select, gather and prepare plant fibres for weaving

What you will get

Take home your own handwoven beautiful and functional basket/work of art

What to bring

An old towel, 2 pegs, sturdy garden scissors, a water spray bottle and a darning needle

What to wear

Casual, comfortable clothes

REFUND POLICY

CERES reserves the right to cancel workshops due to insufficient numbers.

If we cancel the workshop you will be entitled to a 100% refund, or you may choose to transfer to another date, subject to availability.

If you decide to withdraw 7 or more days prior to the workshop date CERES will retain a 10% administration fee.

If you decide to withdraw less than 7 days prior to the workshop date CERES will retain 100% of your workshop fee.