Join us!

CRUX and O’Brien Farm’s Artist in Residence workshop series.

Workshops will take place at O’Brien’s Farm

150 Oxen Pond Road, St. John’s

—Workshops—

Creating Living Willow Structures with Brendan Farren

Discover the art and ecology of working with living willow in this workshop led by Brendan Farren. He will talk about how to design, plant, and sculpt with willow to create both functional and imaginative living structures—from arches and fences to whimsical forms that evolve with the seasons.

This presentation offers an introduction to sustainable, accessible land art using one of nature’s most versatile materials. Brendan will guide participants through the principles of living willow work, blending discussion, demonstration, and group collaboration. Together, the group will learn about constructing a living willow structure at O’Brien’s Farm.

Following the workshop, we invite everyone—whether attending the workshop or not—to join us for a community potluck lunch. Bring a dish to share and enjoy good company in the beautiful surroundings of O’Brien’s Farm.

Learn to Sew a Basket with Susan Furneaux

Learn to sew a basket with odds and ends of grass, fabric, wool, willow. Some materials will be foraged at O’Brien’s Farm and other materials will be provided.

Participants are are encouraged to bring fabric, lace, wool and dried materials such as fabric, fur, grass, seaweed and English Ivy to personalize your baskets.
Participants should bring scissors.

Learn to Weave a Hoop Basket with Brendan Farren

This is a one-day course, open to beginners and improvers who want to weave a basket with willow, dogwood and other locally sourced stems.

Refreshments will be provided. Brendan will guide you through the creation of your own hoop basket.