May 2013 Newsletter

Hello to you all on this glorious May day,

          I’m writing this a little later in the day than I imagined, as in spite of a decidedly un-wonderful weather forecast, I have managed to spend most of today in the garden enjoying all the delicious fresh greens of the new growth, as I planted clematis and lots of seeds in the tubs around the pond (which is finally almost ready to be planted up!). I was planning to do my admin if it started raining, but as it still hasn’t yet I’ve had to reluctantly persuade myself to ‘down trowel’ and get on. So…..I’ve picked the nicest job on the list (writing to you) and installed myself with a cup of tea and my laptop in the yurt. I have a delightful view of all the delicate pink blossom on the apple and pear trees and am still surrounded by birdsong – lovely!

may13-blossom1 may13-yurt may13-blossom2

 

Anyway, let’s get on to news of upcoming workshops here at Blacksmiths. If you fancy trying your hand at willow sculpture this coming weekend (18th and 19th May), then there are still spaces on both days, and if you’re up for a bargain, then due to a cancellation there is now a place at a reduced rate on the Saturday (£40 instead of £70). Drop me an email or give me a call soon on 07736952730 if you’re interested in this. I have plenty of examples to inspire you, so whether you have clear ideas about what you’d like to make or not a clue, you’re bound to go home with something lovely.

There are also spaces on the 2 day round basket course on the 12th and 13th June, but I’m afraid the Trays and platters course on Saturday 15th is now full. However if that was something you really wanted to do, don’t forget that I’m now offering bespoke workshops on weekdays, so do get in touch if you fancy that idea.

I have a busy summer lined up, and this year, I am participating in Cambridge Open Studios on the first 2 weekends (6th&7th and 13th&14th July). I have just decided that I am also going to have a private view on Friday 5th from 6-9pm (with drinks and nibbles) to which everyone on the mailing list is invited. I will be sending out a proper invite nearer the time, but pop it in your diary now, so that you can keep the date free.

Due to some exciting festival projects over the summer there won’t be any workshops during July and early August this year, but I’m planning to run a ‘handbag baskets’ course on Saturday 31st August. This will be aimed at folk with a little experience (those who have made a stake and strand basket before). If in doubt whether it’s for you, drop me a line and we’ll discuss it. I will be announcing the full autumn workshop schedule later in the summer.

may13-handbag1 may13-handbag2

 

I won’t take up any more of your time telling you about many of the lovely projects that I’ve been involved with over the last month or so, but here are a few pics to give you a bit of a taster. Don’t forget that if you want to keep up with what I’ve been up to, I post regularly on the SalixArts Facebook page which you can find atwww.facebook.com/SalixArts

Warm wishes,

Debbie

may13-1 may13-flower2 may13-jo
may13-supports1 may13-wreaths may13-supports2
may13-penguin may13-wreaths2 may13-wreaths3