The Hills have been coming alive with basket weaving this summer, with residents from ages eight to 80 learning how to weave from locally foraged fibres.
Galston artist Kirrily Jordan has been guiding their weaving journeys, showing them how to identify plants for use, harvest sustainably and turn them into their own gorgeous creations.
“People are loving learning about the plants all around them, and how even common grasses can be put to practical use. They’re always excited to learn to weave, but for many people it’s the prevalence of these great resources in their own gardens that really lights them up!” Kirrily said. “Most people tell me that after the workshops they’ve begun harvesting plants for their next basket, and I love to imagine more and more people sustainably connecting to nature in that way.”
Some of the most common plants in the region are suitable for weaving, including lomandra and gymea lily. “These can both make really beautiful baskets,” Kirrily said, “and it brings such joy to find the materials to weave our baskets and our lives from.” Kirrily is a multidisciplinary artist specialising in basketry, textiles and social practice. Her work is motivated by her two great passions in life – art and social justice. She’s a great believer in the power of art to communicate ideas, connect us deeply to each other and contribute to positive social change.
For more information, visit kirrilyjordan.com/workshops
