Introducing: Minion Wednesdays!

For years I've been asking Santa for minions every Christmas but he has yet to deliver and I'm sick of waiting, so I'm just going to figure out how to make my own ;)

I love apprentice-based learning. I am definitely a hands-on learner, so the opportunities I've had in my life to study under someone and learn from them have all been incredibly rewarding to me. And I love teaching and sharing what I'm passionate about, so the times in my life where I've been in that role have also been rewarding. I think it's a shame that in our money-based society true apprenticeships have largely fallen by the way-side. Everyone can benefit from this model of education! So I'm bringing it back.

That's me looking "hella optimistic"

Here's the deal: Every Wednesday evening from 6:30-whenever, I'll be hosting an informal gathering at my home here in Eugene. During this time, I will have some activities related to my art practice that I need help with- everything from processing wild foods to packaging bottles to assembling jewelry. In exchange for help, I'll trade my knowledge and skills so everyone attending gets educated in something new and interesting. It will also be an opportunity for me to test out fun new recipes on my "minions." I get free labor and company, you get delicious food and an education and probably plenty of bad puns. Sound fair?

Each week, I will post information about the up-coming meetup on Sunday night so people have time to RSVP by Tuesday. I'll let you know what we'll be doing, what I'll be feeding you, and if you need to bring anything special to help out. It'll be pretty informal-no need to attend every single Wednesday meetup by any means. Just come when you can and be sure to let me know ahead of time so I can make enough food for the masses. You can apply to attend by filling out the form on this page. If you've already filled one out and want to attend another week, just fill out the basic info- no need to answer the questions. Each week I will review applications, giving priority to those submitted first. I'll only select as many "minions" as I need for that week's activities- anywhere from 4-8.

Here's me teaching a class on mordanting fabric. Look at how well-behaved my students are!

A couple of guidelines:
*This activity is intended for adults, though if your teen is responsible and interested I will consider allowing younger participants.
*I am by no means an expert in wild-crafting, crafting in general, or teaching. But I do have quite a bit of experience with all of those and I teach with integrity; I won't pretend to know something I don't and will only teach what I am confident in teaching.
*This is a time for trying new things and experimenting. As such, I may not have much/any experience with the activity for any given night. I do my research but don't always know how something will work, so be warned. I am always open to suggestions!
*I am inviting you as a guest into my home, so please be respectful of my (and my landlady's!) belongings and space.

Hope to see you there!