August Weaving Workshop
Cane Basket Weaving with Daniel Hills

For our August Weaving Workshop, we are proud to offer a Cane Basket Weaving workshop with Daniel Hills (Yorta Yorta) – the winner of the 11th Koorie Art Show Creative Victoria Award for Excellence in any Media for his artwork, “Goanna Outback” 2023.  Daniel also has an artwork in the current exhibition Spirit of the Animals.

In this session, you will learn the intricate twining weaving technique that involves using natural rattan cane, along with various natural grasses, nuts, and seeds.

“While participating in the workshop, we’ll explore the rich history of basket weaving and its therapeutic advantages and its role as a means to achieve mindfulness and enhance overall well-being.  The act of transforming simple materials into functional and decorative creations create a sense of accomplishment and boosts self-esteem, while also providing an outlet for self-expression.” – Daniel Hills, 2024

By the end of the season, you will create a medium-sized basket, entirely shaped by your creativity and self-expression. 

WHO: This workshop is designed for adults.
Workshop is Ally Friendly. All  are welcome.

HOW: Tickets are free, but bookings are essential.  

WHAT: All materials and tools provided.

WHAT ELSE: Light catering and drinks provided.

About Daniel

Growing up on a farm in Gymbowen, West Wimmera, and born in Nhill, Victoria, I was fortunate to have a childhood indulged in rural life. However, it was our move to Mildura, Victoria, at the age of 10 that truly opened my eyes to the rich cultural heritage of the local Indigenous community. 

Being welcomed into the community we immersed ourselves which allowed us to break free from the limitations of generational ignorance and misfortune my family endured in our previous cultural acceptance. Instead we developed a profound appreciation for our cultural roots while connecting our ancestry to the Yorta Yorta tribal area.

I now take great pride in my Yorta Yorta ancestry, which I am committed to learning, practising, and sharing with others to ensure our culture remains strong for future generations.

My artistic pursuits have been diverse, with exhibitions at esteemed galleries such as Workspace 3496 Gallery, Mildura Art Centre Gallery, Dulka Yuppata Indigenous Training Centre Gallery, and most notably, the Koorie Heritage Trust, Birrarung Building Gallery, where I was honored to receive the Creative Victoria Award for Excellence in any Media for my woven work, Goanna Outback 2023.  

My passion for arts extends to many forms and techniques, from drawing, sculpture and painting, I have also explored large-scale public murals. Yet, it is in the realm of sculptural weaving that I have discovered my true calling. By combining traditional techniques with modern forms and materials, I have found a therapeutic outlet that has been instrumental in my personal healing journey.

Throughout my artistic endeavours, my family along with the community have been a constant source of inspiration and support. Their encouragement has helped me tap into my creative potential, allowing me to stay connected to our rich cultural heritage and continue to grow as an artist.