Threads 107: Basketry Classes Across Canada - Part 1
I am excited to hear of so many basketry schools opening across this country, from the East Coast to the West Coast.
In 1972 when I became interested in learning basketry there were no opportunities in this country. A little teaching happened for occupational therapy students, But there were no classes anywhere. I found a few immigrant farmers making willow baskets, and a very expert 90 year old Italian basket maker in (I think) Thunder Bay. So as a result, I went to England and found a local willow basket maker who gave me a few lessons.
Gradually things began to happen, and some 50 years later basketry is alive and well in Canada. This article is the first of a series of basketry schools across the country that I am aware of.
Willow’s Bend Collective
Willow’s Bend Collective is a collaborative endeavor that combines traditional craft with sustainable agriculture and is located at 40 Old South River Road, Antigonish, Nova Scotia.
Established in partnership with Big Barn Little Farm and master basket weaver Sian Gwynne Turner, the collective aims to promote the art of basketry using locally grown and gathered materials. Willow’s Bend Collective hosts the school, willow, basket & tool sales, and their fledgling casket business. Below is a picture of their classroom, You can find out more on their webpage: www.willowsbendcollective.ca
Big Barn Little Farm, owned and operated by Susannah Murphy and Will Frankland, began as a small-scale, community-based regenerative farm. You can find out more at their webpage: