Upcoming and Recent Events
Earth Day Events, 2026
Weave a Basket with Invasive Ivy
1 to 4 pm. Sunday, April 12
Small City Farm, Nanaimo
Earth Day Celebration
11am-5pm. Saturday, April 25
Bowen Park, Duck Pond/Amphitheatre, Nanaimo
Organized by Art Action Earwig! Join myself and other artists for community-driven arts and performances, eco-restoration, and weaving an ivy garland chain. More information here.
Online Demo and Talk
Working With Tree Bark For Sculptural Work & Basketry
June 4th, 4-6pm (British Standard Time), 2026
More info and registration here
Tree bark is an ancient, eco-friendly material that can be used in a contemporary, sculptural way. I will share my best tips for harvesting and working with deciduous tree barks, as well as some of my favourite contemporary artists working with this material.
Talk & Slideshow
When Life Gives You Invasives, Make Art
Saturday, Feb 21, 2026
1 pm to 3:30 pm
Hunter Jarret, the "Invasive Species Guy" of Nanaimo, and Christi York, a Gabriola Island based artist working with plant materials, will share their passions and their work in this slide presentations and Q&A. Ideas and language around the idea of "invasive species" is evolving. Learn about habitat restoration practices, and get inspired by creative endeavours from artists who work with “over-abundant” plant material. This is an awareness and fundraiser by the NALT Native Plant Nursery. Purchase tickets, or at the door on a sliding scale basis.
Online Learning
Open Weave Wall Hanging Basket
and
Working with English Ivy
Pre-recorded classes show you the technique to weave your own gorgeous wall hanging basket. Use purchased basketry material, or foraged wild vines.
The separate, English Ivy session (recording available) covers what to look for, how to harvest, and a detailed demonstration on how to peel and split the vines into fine material.
Workshop
Subtle Colours from Nature:
Fun with Handmade Inks
6 to 9 pm. Tuesday, November 4, 2025
Learn how to make a batch of ink from botanical materials. Meanwhile, we will play with abstract mark making, building up loose patterns in muted tones on watercolour paper. Beginners welcome.
Click on articles below to visit Christi’s Substack blog and newsletter.