This workshop is for all ages (Children 5 and under must be accompanied by a caregiver). 

Inspired by the nests in the bare winter trees (and some which fall to the ground), as well as the book A Nest Is Noisy, (Aston & Long), available at Split Rock Books, we will learn to weave our own little nests from cozy, fluffy, twine-y,  and wind-y materials found in nature, and some which are human-made. We will use various twig and cardboard structures, to practice our over-under-over-under weaving methods, and create beautiful art-nests that can be hung up, contain something special, and may even be worn! Every nest will be different, surprising, and nurturing! We will have all the materials you need to weave, but you can also bring one or two found materials from home or the outdoors that you might want to incorporate into your nest!

Each month features a seasonal theme that ties what is happening in the natural world to stories, poems, the art of observation and inquiry outside, and creative play.  We’ll use seasonal materials found in nature, tie-in to a children’s book (in partnership with Split Rock Books!) to make a project that can continue to inspire you and your child throughout the season. 

FEE: $10 advance purchase, $15 day of

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Lara Shihab-Eldin is an architectural designer focused on sustainable materials. She recently completed a children’s library space which brings together literacy, play, and ecological design; inspired by the history, landscape, and industry of a Hudson River community. Lara has volunteered for the past 3 years to encourage environmental stewardship and teach outdoor education in her community. She loves teaching and learning with collaborators, outdoor educators, and children, and bringing interdisciplinary design thinking to seasonal, nature-inspired art projects!

Andrea Toscano is an artist and gardener based in Kingston NY. She currently is concentrated on in exploring how nature, art and design intersect through community outreach projects. Promoting sustainability and self-resilience through nature-based art and design projects is the core of her work. She currently assists with an outdoor learning program for children, and is inspired by facilitating hands-on learning to maintain healthy communities!