Project Description

During this  4 part residency,  students will have the opportunity to deepen their understanding of basketry by  learning  weaving techniques, materials used, and the history and culture of basketry.  Students will be able to make cordage out of leaves and weave a 6”x6” sample using a variety of reeds. During this residency, students will complete their own basket.

Final Product

Students will be able to create and complete a basket using a wood base, reed spokes and  a variety of dyed reed to make their own unique basket. The cordage they made earlier in the session may be used on this basket if they wish.  

Learning Outcomes

  • Students will be able to make cordage out of natural materials from daylilies, iris, or crocosmia leaves.
  • Students will learn a new medium of art- basketry.
  • Students will learn the terminology, process and methods used in basket weaving. 
  • Students will demonstrate their own skills through instruction and proper supplies. 
  • Students will stand up and use their voice with confidence.
  • Students will have a greater understanding and cultural awareness as they learn the history behind this art. 

Suggested Grades

  • Best suited for 2nd-5th grades.

Pricing Breakdown

  • 4 visits at 45 minutes each
  • Prep hours: 2.5 hours per classroom
  • Materials: $4 per student
  • Travel from Eugene

Scheduling

This residency is available after 12:30 Mondays, Tuesdays, and Fridays

This residency is only available for up to three classrooms per residency because the materials are hand-harvested by the artist.

Testimonials

“Patricia is a pro at teaching art She is good at doing demonstrations, giving directions and managing materials. She is reliable– on time, prepared, and she shows up with a smile on her face.  She is just a nice person and makes everyone feel accepted.”

—President of the Board for the Rural Arts Center

“I just wanted to send a note saying how much we appreciate the basket weaving artist program with Ms. Patricia. My daughter, Jill, is always excited when she starts a new portion of the lessons, and she’s really enjoying the process and wants to try to do something similar at home, like make her own baskets or teach her younger siblings. Thanks so much for putting this on, I really love that she gets to experience such rich art experiences at school!”
-Parent of student at Awbrey Park Elementary

Meet the Artist

Why I teach art:

“I find enjoyment in guiding people of all ages in a creative process that encourages the imagination and allows them to express themselves through their creation.”

—Patricia Montoya Donohue

Submit Your Residency Request