Last week I was at Arrowmont for a workshop, the first in-person one I've taught since the mentorship program at John C. Campbell Folk School in the fall of 2020. I've had several online classes through Lessonface and the Folk School since then but nothing matches the experience of face-to-face teaching. It's physically (especially after the hip replacement surgery in June) and mentally exhausting but I love it!
Nine people came from far distances to be together in this most wonderful class. It was nice to finally meet some folks who I'd known for years virtually (social media and online classes), be introduced to others, and see old friends.
I was fortunate to be able to invite an assistant for the class, and Roxie, a senior at the University of North Georgia who's studying textiles, came to Gatlinburg to join me.
The class was one that included design activities and a bit of weaving. Demos and discussions throughout the week, also.
Everyone worked hard, ate delicious food at the dining hall daily, and even saw a bear or two during the week! Here are photos of just a few of the activities from the class—and a view of the traffic getting to and from the school (if you didn't know, Gatlinburg is one of the prime tourist spots in the Great Smoky Mountains).
