Weaving Baskets w/ Mimi Bonkowske

WEAVING BASKETS w/ Mimi Bonkowske | 2-Day Workshop –
Saturday, November 11th 10am-2pm and Sunday, November 12th 10am-2pm

One of the oldest forms of art, pine needle basketry has been practiced by Native Americans for centuries. Mimi Bonkowske’s unique and complex pine needle designs expand on the traditional art form. Learn how-to create your own work of art from all those pine needles in the yard!

Mimi Bonkowske’s unique gift of basket weaving carries elements of the ancients. Having been blessed with both skill and the creative heart of an artist, Mimi desires to pass on a great and beautiful heritage. Providing the supplies for pine needle basket weaving and a complete instruction book, the knowledge garnered through years of weaving will not be lost and a student will walk away prepared to share this truly remarkable skill on to others. This class is designed for beginners.

$135; 2-day workshop, 10 students max includes all materials, instruction, drink and snacks.

From Mimi: The art of pine needle craft is not new, and has its beginnings in Native American culture. Pine trees were believed sacred and had curative and protective powers. Breath expelled into a basket made of needles was said to capture, and protect the soul from evil.
Colorado also had its place in pine needle crafting, brought about at the turn of the century by two pioneering women, the Dickerson sisters. They lived and homesteaded in the foothills of the Northern Rockies in an area known as the Buckhorn Canyon. Bits of the homestead are still apparent, and some of their wares are still in evidence today.
The lore, the beauty of the art, and the spiritual feeling all lend to the name I gave my business, Spirits in the Pines.
It is with pleasure that I am able to share “their” craft, and my craft with you.