Saturday 30 November 2024, In-person Straw Star Workshop with Ruby Taylor of Native Hands
St Mary's Church, Wyndham Place, York St, London, W1H 1PQ
14:00 - 16:00 GMT (Greenwich Mean time, London, UK)
In-person workshop during Selvedge Winter Fair 2024 with Ruby Taylor of Native Hands
Ruby’s practice is materials-led (using clay and plant fibres); she is concerned with origins and connection and the immersive, sensory experience of making; inspired by the dialogue that emerges between the maker’s hands and the materials. Immersed in the whole cycle of production: harvesting directly from the landscape in a sustainable and respectful way, processing the raw materials, creating functional and sculptural pieces.
Her work is also informed by extended periods of silent contemplative practice in the natural world, and being a team member of an archaeology & museums partnership for a number of years, which involved co-building prehistoric-style dwellings.
A trained educator and maker with over 30 years of experience, Ruby regularly runs courses as Native Hands in Sussex woodland and at UK heritage sites.
She has been commissioned by Wakehurst Kew a number of times to create large-scale works, including Hazel Holloway 2023 in Pearcelands Wood.
Link to a 3-minute film about why Ruby does what she does, shot in the woodland where she teaches: vimeo.com/345381832
Follow: @nativehands.uk
Outline of the workshop
Make a beautiful, large, folk art-inspired star from the English Rush. These beauties are big enough to hang on your door as a gorgeous alternative to a wreath. They’re also perfect as a wall decoration if you prefer.
Rush is a traditional, native plant that grows in slow-moving rivers and is harvested annually in summer. It’s a lovely material to work with. There’ll be sample stars showing variations in style to inspire you. Different styles are suited to different levels of experience, but they’re all gorgeous. You’ll be using prepped English rush and a variety of coloured natural twines.
Level of experience required: good dexterity is needed, as accurate measuring, cutting and tying are involved
Workshop Cancellation Policy
All places reserved for workshops are non-refundable, however, if you let us know you are not able to attend a workshop you have booked at least two weeks prior to the event, we will offer a credit note.
If you require additional information about this workshop please contact the events team, events@selvedge.org.