Create with Nature
Date: Saturday 15th & Sunday 16th August
Class Time: 9:30am - 4:00pm (Sat) | 10:00am - 3:00pm (Sun)
With Tutor: Birgit Moffatt
This two-day workshop is an invitation to slow down, step outside, and see the natural world through a creative lens. You'll explore what our whenua/our land has to offer, learn a range of transferable making techniques, and leave with a series of small, playful objects.
The goal of this workshop is to (re) connect with te taiao/nature that is around us and finding your creative flow, so you will be confident experimenting further based on the learnings in this workshop.
What You'll Learn:
You will learn some basic techniques such as making cordage (string) from paper plant fibres, basic hand weaving and whipping. Birgit will talk about harvesting, preparing and storing of natural materials.
Part of the workshop is a foraging walk around the campus, seeing the range of possibilities our whenua/our land has to offer: twigs, leaves, shells, feathers, rocks, bark are just a few.
This workshop is suitable for absolute beginners as well as for creatives who want to explore a new field, adding some basic but versatile techniques to their basket of knowledge.
What Are Some Benefits of Doing This Workshop?
- Learn simple, versatile techniques such as cordage making, hand weaving, and whipping
- Discover how to identify, harvest, prepare, and store natural materials for creative use
- Explore the creative possibilities of natural elements like twigs, leaves, shells, bark, and feathers
- Take part in a guided foraging walk and learn to see your surroundings with fresh creative eyes
- Reconnect with te taiao and develop a deeper appreciation for the materials nature provides
- Build confidence experimenting with natural fibres and found materials
- Enjoy a hands-on, beginner-friendly workshop that welcomes all levels of experience
- Leave with practical skills and inspiration to continue working creatively with natural materials
What You'll Take Home:
Instead of having to complete one project, you will create a series of small, whimsical objects by experimenting in a playful way without the pressure of overthinking.
About Your Tutor:
Birgit Moffatt is a contemporary artist who specialises in nature-inspired art and sustainable practices. With years of experience in working with organic materials, Birgit’s work bridges the connection between the natural world and artistic expression. She is passionate about sharing traditional techniques and helping others discover the endless creative possibilities offered by the environment.
What to Bring:
- Gear to go outside (weather dependent)
- Secateurs
*There will be a list with suggestions of what to bring closer to the day.
What Will Be Provided:
Students will be encouraged to bring a range of their own (natural) materials, but the basics will be supplied by the tutor.
Can Anyone Do This Class?
Yes! This workshop is suitable for complete beginners and experienced artists alike. No prior art experience is necessary, just a love for creativity and nature!
If you wish to cancel, email us at least 14 clear days before your class begins. You'll receive a full refund less an admin fee of $20 via the same payment method (e.g., credit card or Afterpay) if you cancel within this timeframe.
Unfortunately, refunds aren't available for cancellations with less than 14 days' notice, nor for missed classes within a series.
If you are required to bring specific supplies to this class you will be sent full details via email. Please make sure you keep the receive emails ticked at checkout to ensure you do not miss out on this information.
This class will be held on campus at The Learning Connexion located at 182 Eastern Hutt Road, Lower Hutt. Specific details of where on campus your class will be held will be sent to you the week prior to the commencement of your class
All our tutors are qualified and practicing artists who are skilled in specific art forms and regularly teach to support others in their own art practices.
Create with Nature
