Registration Opens June 22 at 10am.

2015 Maiwa Textile Symposium

Workshop: Baskets - Process and Material Explorations

Joan Carrigan

$395 includes 70 lab fee

October 5, 6, 7, 8,  - Class Limit 12

Maiwa East: 1310 Odlum Drive, Vancouver BC

Basket weaving is an ancient skill found in all cultures in a wide variety of forms. We will be exploring weaving techniques and variations associated with twining and wicker construction. These techniques offer a solid framework allowing us to focus on shaping and pattern design. A variety of weaving techniques will be covered including randing, variations of twining, twill and open weaves. We will look at symmetrical and asymmetrical shaping with an emphasis on the sculptural potentials of three-dimensional weaving. Our base material will be dyed reed or vine rattan with a wide selection of natural materials for incorporation, such as barks, rush, vines, and roots. Demonstration and discussion will cover how to harvest and prepare local natural materials for use in basketry. Joan joins us from Salt Spring Island.

Instructor Bio

Joan Carrigan is a full-time basketmaker and basketry teacher living on Salt Spring Island, BC. Over the past 24 years, her passion for baskets has led her to study, travel, and explore many different techniques and materials. Joan studied Fine Art and Art History at the University of Guelph, and her love of history has fuelled her research in traditional techniques. Her background in fine art has fuelled her enthusiasm for the sculptural and creative potential that the medium offers. Her inspiration comes from the plant materials she respectfully harvests from nature. 

Joan’s work has been exhibited nationally and internationally. She has received two Project Grants from the Canada Council of the Arts and is the recipient of two Handweavers Guild of America Awards. Joan teaches extensively both close to home and in Europe and finds this to be a very rewarding aspect of her career.