School Residencies |
| As a South Carolina Resident Artist on the Approved Artists Roster since 1995, I have visited many schools in the upstate of South Carolina and instructed more than 1900 students in the art of Basket Weaving. Basket Weaving invloves a variety of skills and can be included in several subject areas: Mathematics with measurement, fractions, estimating, and sequence; Social Studies, Native American Indians and the History of baskets through the years; Geography and Map Skills, Science and dyeing natural materials; Art and shapes, texture and patterns, with plenty of opportunities for decision making and following directions. The typical Basket Weaving Residency is offered to grades four through twelve. Techniques and materials are geared toward age and ability levels with all materials supplied for students to complete a basket of their choice. The baskets range from the traditional market basket to original designs by high school students who plan to continue their educaiton in the field. Their basket is a 3-dimensional visual piece of art added to their portfolio. Classes meet with the artist one hour or more each day. A variety of hands-on activities are included in weaving a traditional flat reed basket: choosing the shape of the basket, selecting, measuring, cutting materials, forming the base, and weaving with rows of natural and dyed materials. Teacher workshops are conducted upon request during or after school hours. Teachers can enjoy a workshop and weave a small basket of their choice. Learn the same skills as the students, which our ancestors used many years ago. To experience an activity that integrates many curriculum areas, Basket Weaving can also be included as an In-Service Program for teachers in any subject area. Please contact Pati English |