Ref: S4D33617
The agricultural richness of the Perigord and Dordogne regions in France, which produces Jerusalem artichokes, potatoes, walnuts, and mushrooms, served as the inspiration for this indigenous ‘potager’ basket. Its attractive design, with a base resembling the spokes of a bicycle wheel, enables dirt and small stones to shake through after gathering freshly dug vegetables, followed by a brisk rinse in a pond or stream. Crafted using a simple yet overlocking technique reminiscent of Neolithic weave, this basket is directed by the eye and principles of proportion, rather than strict pattern and measurements. It is a symmetrical yet asymmetrical form which is determined by the maker, akin to creating a piece of sculpture.
This course will teach you to weave an intricate interplay of rods, with subtle variations in form and proportion, inherent in the creation of the 'bouyricou', 'Perigourdin', or 'French Spiral' basket. During the course, each stage of basket making is meticulously demonstrated, allowing you to become comfortable with the unfamiliar hand movements and unique construction techniques. Beginning with ‘rehearsal’ willow to help you learn this unusual spiral basket construction from the centre of a 10’ diameter of 120 radiating rods.
Under your tutor’s guidance, you will work at your own pace, receiving one-to-one help and direction. By the end of the course, you will have completed your own basket and have gained a profound insight into the fascinating construction techniques involved. Equipped with new skills, you will have the knowledge to experiment with size, profile, and variations of this basketry construction in your own practice.
Driven by determination and a passion for this basketry form, Judy embarked on this journey 15 years ago, immersing herself in the only publication available – a book and film by the Danish maker – Eva Seidenfaden. Still seeking to improve, she travelled to Villaines-les-Rochers in France to study under the guidance of masters Norbert Faure and David Drew. As one of the few practicing makers of this art form, Judy is now committed to sharing her expertise with fellow makers.
Arrival Day - this is the first date listed above
Courses start early evening. Residential students to arrive from 4pm, non-residential students to arrive by 6.45pm.
6.45pm: Welcome, followed by dinner (included).
8 - 9pm: First teaching session, attendance is essential.
Daily timetable
Classes 9.15 - 5pm, lunch is included.
From 6.30pm: Dinner (included for residential students).
Evening working - students may have access to workshops until 9pm, but only with their tutor's permission and provided any health and safety guidelines are observed.
Last day
Classes 9.15am - 3pm, lunch is included.
Residential students are to vacate their rooms by 10am please.
(This timetable is for courses of more than one day in length. The tutor may make slight variations)
Impressed twenty years ago by film footage of a Peruvian footbridge spanning a deep river chasm re-made each year from grass, Judy studied willow constructions with Malcolm Seal, Linda Lemieux, Joe Hogan, Tom Hare, Welsh coracle builders, and split ash with American Jamin Uticone.
Residential option available. Find out accommodation costs and how to book here.
Take the next step in your creative practice, with foundation level to Masters in Fine Art study.
Depending on your experience, start with an Online Foundation Certificate in Art and Design (one year, part-time), a Foundation Diploma in Art and Design made up of 10 short courses taken over two years (part-time) or advance your learning with our BA (Hons) Art and Contemporary Craft: Materials, Making, and Place (six years part-time). All will help you develop core skills, find direction in your practice and build an impressive portfolio in preparation for artist opportunities or higher-level study. See all degree and diploma courses.
