Here are some large scale willow projects that I have worked on in the past. I am doing less large scale work now but am still available for commissions.
Windbreak, Brodie Castle, Moray
This was a willow wind break that I designed and made to protect the Rodney Stone at Brodie Castle, Moray. The coniferous woodland which protected the stone from the prevailing wind had been clear felled. A mixed woodland had been replanted but it would be some time before it offered any shelter. One face is carved with Christian symbols and the other with Pictish depictions of mysterious beasts with a runic inscription around the edge. I wove this in a mix of local and Somerset willow and it was linked in with a schools project creating “Pictish” beasts in willow.
Sculptural fence, Gibraltar Island, Toronto
This fence was made on Gibraltor Island,Toronto, in collaboration with Stephanie Bunn, who also designed it. Its purpose was to direct people over the fragile sand dune eco-system via a board walk through the central archway. It was great working on an island with nearly no cars and mainly bicycles, yet only a short ferry ride from central Toronto. This is the fence in the winter !
Bishkek, Central Asia
Several years ago I was in Bishkek, Central Asia to run some willow courses and work with students from the art school. We managed to source a small lorry load of willow, enough to run two courses and a sculpture project with the students, who were very keen. Here we are working on a large random weave structure.
I have recently moved my workshop and am not currently running any courses. However I am available to run willow courses for groups at outside venues. Please contact me for details
Courses descriptions.
Willow courses, our willow courses are over for the Spring but we may have some courses coming up in the Autumn. However if you have a group of four or more we can arrange a course to suit you.
Willow Bitterns, we will be making willow sculptures of the rare and iconic Bittern which lives in the reed beds at along the Suffolk coast. They are more usually heard than seen ! Drinks and biscuits will be provided. Skills learnt can be used to make other bird and animal sculpture for your garden.
Willow plant supports for the garden, we will be making plant supports for the garden and in the process learning basic skills. At the end of the day you should have a plant support to take home and some new skills. Suitable for beginners upwards.
Willow chicken protectors, I learnt to make these in Southern Germany but never found out if they were to keep the chickens in or out ! They have a strong three rod whale as a base and are about two feet in diameter and between two and three feet high. They are made in the ground but can be moved around when made.
Jon Warnes
07732 799 072
