New chance to learn ancient skills

At the workshops, run in conjunction with the Orange Fibre Artists Group, participants will learn how to make baskets and also learn about the history and strong cultural significance of the often taken for granted item.

Orange City Council’s Services Policy Committee Chair Cr Ron Gander said modern society often denigrates the art of basket weaving as a type of ‘busy work’ but in Indigenous culture, baskets were an essential part of life and survival.

“Basket weaving was a crucial life skill taught to generation after generation,” Cr Gander said.

“Essential supplies were carried across vast distances in baskets and they had to last.

“These workshops are being run for children and adults and are being taught by local Indigenous people along with other central west artists.”

On June 17, from 10am ‘Animated Animals’ will introduce children (6yrs – 14yrs) to the fun of weaving, utilizing raffia to make animal sculptures.

From 2pm an adult’s workshop ‘Weaving 101’ will teach the art of weaving, through making a small woven basket.

The Orange Regional Museum currently has several traditional baskets on display, made by the Orange Fibre Artists Group using locally sourced grasses and materials.

All workshop places are limited and must be booked in advance.

Basket Weaving – Animated Animals

Sat 17 Jun 10am-12pm Orange Regional Museum

This workshop will introduce children (6yrs – 14yrs) to the fun of weaving, utilizing raffia to make animal sculptures & dream catchers.

Tickets $17 per child, accompanying adults free Bookings required, www.orangemuseum.com.au/events or 0263938444

Basket Weaving – Weaving 101

Sat 17 Jun 2pm-4pm Orange Regional Museum

Adult workshop. Learn the gentle art of weaving, through making a small woven basket. Presented by Orange Fibre Artists group. Workshop for 16 years and up.

Tickets $25 per person Bookings required, www.orangemuseum.com.au/events or 0263938444