Natural Weaving Workshops in Mundaring, May 2012

I'm looking forward to attending this workshop throughout May.  Artist's Joyce Tasma and Ann Williams will be instructing participants.  I attended a free community weaving workshop in Bassendean last year that Joyce coordinated which was fabulous, so I'm keen to learn more from Joyce and Ann.  I've posted the info here as they are seeking more participants - it's only $15 for the whole four weeks (as it's govt funded). It will be in the gorgeous surrounds of Perth Hills in Mundaring. 

I'm keen to revisit this craft as several years ago, I was fortunate enough to attend a two day workshop at the home of  Nalda Searles to learn natural weaving techniques.  Nalda's gentle teaching, amazing artworks and her work with people in remote communities is inspiring! 

Here's the very clumsy things that I made at Nalda's home, a small straw canoe and paper bark canoe.

Straw canoe, formed by hand-stitching

Paper bark canoe, formed by hand-stitching

The straw canoe is surprisingly very much intact (reminding me to go canoeing more often).  I also made this little fabric basket made from torn up scraps of cotton, calico, silk fabric and  wooden beads (sorry not the best photo). 

Woven fabric vessel with wooden beads

I love this little fabric vessel, it is very clumsily made, but it excites me that I made something with my own hands, using no tools and out of very basic materials.  I put my glasses in this vessel every night by the bedside, so I can look at it everyday.  I love the memory of where I made it - surrounded by other women, making and creating on the patio at Nalda Searle's home. Nalda taught me how to make this - it was a real honour and privilege!

I'm keen to improve and broaden my skills with this traditional craft and so I'm really excited and looking forward to going along to the workshops commencing next week.