Artists Details

Art skills

Sculpture, Visual

Other skills

First aid

Phase/sector

Early Years Foundation Stage framework, Enquiry / Play based Workshop

Prepared to work

Nationally

Willowpool Designs

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Statement

I specialise in working with schools and communities to create willow structures and sculptures. I build living willow shelters and play features that grow and provide a focus for study and play. I involve children and carers in all stages of building a willow structure - from choosing the site, to planning the final structures. Children are shown the different materials - willow colours and varieties, the tools we use, how we mark out and measure and also how we weave simple designs. I also explain about the cycle of growth, the importance of trees to our health (i.e. for shade etc). We work on indoor sculptures; children learn how to select material, how to make simple shapes, counting and weaving. My work enhances the delivery of FS Early Learning Goals in a variety of ways - mathematical development (counting and measuring sticks), knowledge, communication (through working out designs and ideas), creative development (by talking about how things are made i.e. baskets and bird's nests). Physical development - a living willow structure becomes a focus for outdoor play as well as providing shade protection against skin cancer in summer.

Experience

Art in education

2003 Making willow play dome, weaving fish sculptures with children Hindpool Nursery, Barrow

2002 Living willow play sculpture plus weaving Christmas decorations TOTS Playground Surestart Project, Hindley, Wigan

2002 Surestart/Homestart - Claremnot West Family Centre, Barnardos Centre, Mereside Family Centre - all willow weaving events Surestart, Blackpool

2001-2002 Living willow hide, willow tunnel Crossens Nursery, Southport

Qualifications

BA Hons Heritage Management
First Aid Certificate

Website

www.geocities.com/willowpool

Projects

Living Willow, 2002 , Tot's Playground, Hindley, Wigan
Provide a living willow play structure for Surestart in newly created play area for pre-school children. Planned as part of a garden/playground project to enhance site and provide a natural play area. more..."

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