Practical Basketry Techniques
Published by A&C Black, due out February 2012

Co-authored with Stella Harding, this publication introduces six main techniques in basketry. Coiling, twining, stake and strand, plaiting, interlacing and assemblage projects with step by step instructions are included in the book, familiarizing readers with the use of traditional as well as non traditional materials, with a focus on sourcing materials from your local environment from natural fibres to recycled materials. A book launch will be held at Siobhan Davies Studios on February 24th, accompanied by basketry displays and demonstrations, and the opportunity to create your own basket.The first five visitors will receive a free copy of the book. For further information on the event click here. For other basketry related projects, click here.

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Tibby Place, Greenman Street, Islington N1
5 July 2010 - 31 July 2010

The Hanging Garlands of Tibby Place was an interactive and participatory installation at Tibby Place using the existing iron framework that remains of old Tibberton Baths as a loom.

Tibberton Baths were built in 1897, known to locals as "the Tib", they were popular swimming baths until 1982. Now all that remains is the iron framework which stands as a curious monument to the former pool, and became the temporary framework for Waltener's performative and participatory installation. Web like patterns were woven in and around the structure over the course of the month by participants and dancers physically created the woven interventions through a contemporary twist on the traditional "maypole" type of performance. See the events page for more information.

This art work is one of a series of Secret Garden Projects commissioned by Islington Council.

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Hybrid Basketry at Origin

A basket is a bowl is a hat is a ball is a bird is a cage is a bin is a basket…

Working with the idea that you can weave a basket with almost anything and in so many different ways, Shane Waltener is to lead an interactive project at Origin this coming October at Somerset House, London. Visitors will have an opportunity to customise basketware and contribute to a woven sculptural installation. Basketry items will be stripped, transformed, passed on to others, and incorporated into the ever growing display in the Crafting Space at the fair. Salvaged basketware will include domestic items and a variety of materials ranging from natural fibres to plastics.

The installation will blend the sculptural with the functional. Various techniques of weaving, knotting, stitching, plaiting and netting will be introduced on a daily basis, establishing connections between a number of applied arts traditions and basketry. The communal making and time spent weaving is to prompt a renewed engagement and enthusiasm for the broader aspects of this under-represented craft, and making in general.

For more information on the event, please visit the following link, or read the following article.

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