Using a variety of natural materials, fibers and rattan reed, students will create art pieces that begin with gourds or found sticks. Learn dying techniques for your gourd that will then be enhanced with a unique woven feature. Basketry techniques will be applied to the creation of a two dimensional structure suitable for wall display. You can expect to create at least three pieces, no two alike! A variety of color choices will be provided. Samples shown are representative.

Please bring the following items with you: clippers with a narrow blade or strong scissors, needle nosed pliers, bucket or pail, small flat screwdriver, old towel, old shirt or apron and a spirit of adventure! Denise and Annelies will contact students prior to class.

Denise Arzberger began weaving in 1989 and has not stopped yet. Appreciating baskets for their function as well as their beauty, Denise designs baskets far beyond the imagination. Using everything from antlers to sea grass, her designs add a creative and modern twist to the otherwise traditional, functional basket. Denise has taught at a variety of basketry conventions, and allows the student to learn at their own pace, making for a laid-back environment in a variety of class settings.

Annelies Gebert has been using nature as an influence for her gourd artistry since 1997. Using basket-making techniques learned at a convention, she uses a wide variety of natural fibers to create unique gourd pieces. The three-dimensional surface, exclusive shapes and various textures of the gourds take her imagination to new levels. Annelies uses a hands-on teaching approach, allowing the student to get the most out of their studio time.

Level: All Levels