Instructor:
Lois Russell
Workshop Name:
New Uses of an Ancient Technique
Date: October 22nd-28th, 2024
Lois Russell is a fiber artist whose sculptural work reflects her background as a traditional basket maker. Her current work is primarily twining with waxed linen. She also uses coiling, knotting and random weave. Lois has won numerous awards in juried exhibitions and has taught at Haystack and Arrowmont among other craft schools. The National Basketry Organization awarded her a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2020 and her work was Category Winner in Excellence in Fiber 2016 . Her work has been collected by the Fuller Craft Museum (MA) and the Racine Art Museum (WI) and is included in 500 Baskets and other books and magazines on fiber arts. Two of her pieces are included in Rooted, Revived and Reinvented: Basketry in America, an exhibition and book on the history of basketry over the past century. Lois has been the president of the National Basketry Organization and of the Society of Arts and Crafts in Boston. Previously she was on the CERF+ board and is currently a trustee of the Penland School of Craft in North Carolina.
About the Workshop
Basketmaking is an ancient craft rich in tradition and technique. Today’s artists are using age-old techniques to create sculptural pieces that challenge the definition of “basket.” This class will focus on one technique: twining. Using colorful waxed linen thread, participants will learn basic twining before moving to creating patterns with two and three colors and learning to control the shape of a piece. After finishing the small basket with a simple rim, participants will learn how to make three different bases and begin a second basket. Exploring the many possibilities of pattern, shape and texture will be encouraged. The class will also introduce double-walled baskets and simple lids. The class will include discussion of trends in contemporary basketry as well as a look at the historical work that inspires it.
Tools/Supplies for Students to bring:
Students need to only bring a pair of sharp scissors and an awl if they have one. Instructor will bring extra tools. Students can also bring any waxed linen they have for possible materials reduced fee.
Weaving Skill Level: All levels
Basket Samples:
Blub Blub
Habitat for Bees
NZ
$50 per student, payable to the instructor at the workshop, which will include a pre-made base for the first project and all the waxed linen needed. Instructor will bring all supplies.
5 Day, 6 Nights Workshop Package Includes: 6 nights onsite lodging, private chef prepared meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) and 5 days of instruction in a private venue.
Supply fees paid directly to instructor.
Meals and Lodging: $1,100 per person private room, $720 per person shared room
Tuition/Fees: $715
Total Package Price: $1,435-$1,815
Non-refundable deposit of $250 due to hold workshop space. The remaining balance is due 60 days prior to workshop start date.
