Back by popular demand, Red Hot Workshops are free hands-on arts workshops in the gardens of Stevens Square-Loring Heights, facilitated by teaching artists.

These workshops are sign-up required and first-come-first-serve. Click here to sign up!

Brigid's Cross: Symbol of Protection

Learn how to turn sticks into form with Martha Bird, local artist and basketmaker. You will use specialty basketry willow that has been harvested, dried and prepared for you. Come try your hand with a basketry technique (although not a basket) and learn and experience how your health is benefited by spending time creating with your hands. You will benefit from Martha’s month long study in Ireland where she learned and was given permission to share how to make this sweet Brigid’s Cross that is believed to bring protection to your home. The class will include a demo, practice with pipe cleaners and then a hands on learning with willow. Participants will make one Brigid’s Cross in class and can bring materials home to make a second one.

No experience necessary.

Martha Bird is an interdisciplinary artist, specializing in sculptural basketry. She is a member of Avivo ArtWorks Collective and is a Holistic RN with a Masters in Human Development. Martha has exhibited regionally and nationally and presents around the country on the health benefits of creating with one’s hands. Committed to community, she has been involved in the arts as a presenter, curator, writer, arts organizer, teaching artist and arts advocate. Martha’s work can be found in collections in Minnesota and New York.

For more information and to view images of Martha Bird’s work, visit www.marthabirdart.com