Ref: S4D37489
You will explore a basketry heritage that developed without the use of willow, shaped instead by the local landscape and the specific needs of rural life.
Through insights gathered on several research trips to the Highlands and Islands, your tutor will introduce you to the rich traditions of these communities and the creative use of local materials.
You will learn about the kishie (Shetland) and the caishie (Orkney) traditional backpacks used by crofters and fishermen to carry a wide range of loads around the croft. From gathering seaweed for fertiliser and collecting seagull eggs on island cliffs to harvesting potatoes and bringing in the catch of the day, these baskets were made to serve many purposes. Each design was adapted to its function and crafted from locally grown or foraged materials such as oat straw, dock stems, mugwort and grasses. These were bound together using twining techniques with hand-plied rush or grass strings, or purchased cordage like coir and sisal.
Over the four-day workshop, you will primarily work with rush, combined with a selection of cordage, including your own handmade rush string, colourful dyed sisal and coarse traditional coir.
You will start small and increase in scale as you grow more familiar with the technique and the range of material combinations.You will make several pieces based on your own choices. Expect to create functional shoulder bags, smaller pouches and pockets, and flat woven mats. This is a hands-on and creative workshop suitable for all levels, whether you are new to basketry or looking to expand your skills.
On this course the college will supply chair seating rush. Your tutor will supply sisal and coir cordage and other plant fibres from Spain.
Available from shop: Large darning needle Rush threaders Notebook and pencil
Available from tutor: Dyed sisal cordage, coir strings and plant fibres: £10 per person
Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio, this includes stout covered footwear (no sandals or open toes).
Arrival day
Residential students can arrive from 4pm, non-residential students to arrive by 7.15pm for registration. Students arriving earlier are welcome to purchase dinner in the College Dining Room from 6pm.
Students meet their tutor in the Bar at 7.30pm prompt to go to studios.
First Teaching session: 7.30pm - 9pm (attendance is essential)
Daily timetable
Course teaching: 9.15am - 5pm
Morning session: 9.15am - 12.45pm including coffee/tea break
Lunch break: 12.45pm - 2pm*
Afternoon session: 2pm - 5pm including coffee/tea break
Teaching finishes: 5pm
Evening working: students may have access to workshops until 9pm, but only with permission from the tutor and provided any health and safety guidelines are observed.
Departure day
Course teaching: 9.15am - 3pm
Teaching finishes: 3pm
Residential students will need to check out of rooms by 10am. Please note, the tutor may make slight variations to the daily timetable as required.
*Lunch can be purchased on campus, view options
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.
Residential option available. Find out accommodation costs and how to book here.
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