Friends Basketry Workshops Program 2012

Discover the ancient and contemplative craft of basketry with professional basket maker Meredith Peach.

Friends of the Botanic Gardens are very pleased to be hosting a series of basketry workshops in the Royal Botanic Garden, Sydney, in 2012. Meredith Peach (Meri) has had professional careers in both art and biology, and her biological background informs much of her artwork. Originally an illustrator, she later switched to marine biological research, then resumed her artistic practice in 2002. She now makes basketry pieces from natural plant materials and reclaimed waste products such as plastic bags. Her work ranges from functional to sculptural, and can often be seen in gallery exhibitions as well as the Garden Shops at Sydney and Mount Tomah. Meri has had several Artist Residencies and regularly teaches basketry workshops. She is a founding member of Basketry NSW and editor of their quarterly newsletter. See www.sharkchic.com.au

To book a place in a workshop, simply click on the links below, fill in the booking form and email to Friends@rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au or fax the form to 9241 3064, or call the Friends' office and book over the phone on 9231 8182.

Twined Baskets

Fully Booked - Waiting List only

In this workshop students will learn twining and cord making, some of the oldest craft techniques known. The versatile technique of twining can be used to make a variety of fibre forms ranging from small delicate vessels to large sturdy sculptures. During the workshop students will make a small twined basket with a cord handle. Included will be discussion around the history and culture of basket making, explanation of gathering and preparation of materials, and demonstrations followed by one-to-one instruction. Bring an old towel and sturdy scissors or secateurs. Notes will be provided.

When: Friday 24 and Saturday 25 February 2012,9.30 am - 4 pm
Where: Maiden Theatre, the Royal Botanic Garden, Sydney
Cost: Friends $260, Non Members $300, includes morning tea and lunch and materials
Bookings essential: Call 9231 8182 or use our Booking Form

Twined Basket

Coiled Sampler Baskets

In this workshop students will combine several different plant materials and stitching techniques to create a 'sampler' coiled basket from natural plant materials. This basket is designed to be used as a reference for materials and techniques. Coiled basketry is one of the oldest craft techniques known. Included in the workshop will be discussion around the history and culture of basket making, explanation of gathering and preparation of materials, and demonstrations followed by one-to-one instruction. Bring an old towel and sturdy scissors or secateurs. Notes will be provided.

When: Friday 25th and Saturday 26th May and Friday 16 and Saturday 17 November 2012 9.30 am - 4 pm
Where: Maiden Theatre, the Royal Botanic Garden, Sydney
Cost: Friends $260, Non Member $300, includes morning tea and lunch and materials
Bookings essential: Call 9231 8182 or use our Booking Form

Coiled sampler basket

Random Weave Sculpture

In this workshop you will learn how to use plants to construct beautiful baskets with unique shapes, textures, colours and scents. You will make a basket incorporating the techniques of random weave and cord making. Included in the workshop will be discussion around the history and culture of basket making, explanation of gathering and preparation of materials, and demonstrations followed by one-to-one instruction. Bring an old towel and sturdy scissors or secateurs. Notes will be provided.

When: Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 September 2012, 9.30 am - 4 pm
Where: Maiden Theatre, the Royal Botanic Garden, Sydney
Cost: Friends $260, Non Members $300, includes morning tea and lunch and materials
Bookings essential: Call 9231 8182 or use our Booking Form

Nesting random weave sculpture