Neolithic braiding with Tim Johnson

Ref: S4D35816

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About this course

Learn this ancient basketmaking technique using rush and esparto grass inspired by traditional round and rectangular baskets from Spain and North Africa.

Course Description

Neolithic braiding can be described as a braid where elements are added in and left out on each ‘stitch’. As the braid spirals, those elements left out on the previous round are then picked up again interlinking the consecutive rounds. Also known as 'continuous plaiting', 'Burkina technique' and ‘Punto de Cofin’ (the stitch of the Olive pressing mat), this ancient structure can be found in baskets from Southern and Western Africa, all around the Mediterranean and as far north as the Orkney Islands.

Today the technique is most commonly practised and most diverse in Spain. During this workshop you will learn several ways of starting these baskets and explore different textures and variations in open and closed weaving. Starting with a straight base you will make rectangular pockets and bags and then move on to round bases and different ways of creating openwork and a variety of textures.

Your baskets can be finished off with a variety of simple borders and long or short handles depending on their function. Working with both rush and esparto grass will give you a feeling of how adaptable this technique can be, equipping you with all the skills needed to then develop these baskets with your own materials after the course.

Since finding examples of this technique in Caithness and Orkney in 2012, Tim has been exploring and researching the Neolithic braiding family of techniques. Now based near Barcelona in Spain, Tim has had the opportunity to learn from traditional Spanish makers and will bring along a variety of traditional baskets from his collection for your study and inspiration.

Course Materials

Included

On this course the College will supply chair seating rush. Tim will supply Esparto grass from Spain.

What students need to bring

  • Notebook
  • Clothes pegs – just a few to help you holding your work
  • The college supplies larger scissors but you may like to bring your own small scissors or side cutters and other basket making tools such as large needles or threaders, fids etc if you have them
  • Sturdy covered footwear in the workshop – this is an essential health and safety requirement

Available to buy

Available from shop:

  • Large darning needle
  • Rush threaders
  • Notebook and pencil

Available from tutor:

  • Additional Esparto grass £10 per person

Additional information

Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio, this includes stout covered footwear (no sandals or open toes).

Timetable

Arrival Day - this is the first date listed above

Courses start early evening. Residential students to arrive from 4pm, non-residential students to arrive by 6.45pm.

6.45pm: Welcome, followed by dinner (included).

8 - 9pm: First teaching session, attendance is essential.

Daily timetable

Classes 9.15 - 5pm, lunch is included.

From 6.30pm: Dinner (included for residential students).

Evening working - students may have access to workshops until 9pm, but only with their tutor's permission and provided any health and safety guidelines are observed.

Last day

Classes 9.15am - 3pm, lunch is included.

Residential students are to vacate their rooms by 10am please.

(This timetable is for courses of more than one day in length. The tutor may make slight variations)

General Information

Tutors

Tim Johnson

Over the past 25 years, artist and basketmaker Tim Johnson has explored the relationships of material, place, nature and culture. His diverse creative practice encompasses basketmaking and performance, photography and painting, sculpture and installation, textiles and costume, his work has been exhibited internationally.

Accommodation

Residential option available. Find out accommodation costs and how to book here.

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Further study options

Take the next step in your creative practice, with foundation level to Masters in Fine Art study. 

Depending on your experience, start with an Online Foundation Certificate in Art and Design (one year, part-time), a Foundation Diploma in Art and Design made up of 10 short courses taken over two years (part-time) or advance your learning with our BA (Hons) Art and Contemporary Craft: Materials, Making, and Place (six years part-time). All will help you develop core skills, find direction in your practice and build an impressive portfolio in preparation for artist opportunities or higher-level study. See all degree and diploma courses.