Project Description
Rattle Making Workshop
Postponed – Sign up on Wait List to be Notified when rescheduled
The intention of this workshop is to create gourd rattles. The gourds we will use to in the creation of our rattles were grown in Crawfordville, Georgia by Mrs. Lena Braswell. It was a joy to visit with Mrs. Braswell and to select rattle gourds from the thousands of gourds she had grown. The sticks we’ll be using for handles have come from cedar and other sticks gathered and prepared by the instructor.
Rattles have existed since prehistoric times and are powerful percussion instruments. They are also used in indigenous cultures and contemporary western societies as a ritual tool for healing, clearing energy, and dancing. Rattling, like drumming, have been shown to activate the Theta Waves of the brain, shifting consciousness and perception.
We will open our workshop with rattling to enter into the creative stream. After the rattling, materials will be selected and the process of making the rattle begins. During the creative process, participants will be interacting with the materials to co-create their rattles. Through this communication the participant, materials and the spirit of the rattle are in right relationship from inception through completion.
Once the rattle is completed we will explore care and use of the rattle through guided visualization accompanied by percussion. The rattles will then be consecrated through movement and use.
Gourds, gourd seeds, sticks, leather, feathers, beads, paint, & other materials are provided. (Please bring any additional materials you might wish to add to your rattle.)
Barbara Odil is a sculptor that works with found fallen wood and other natural materials. She has been teaching creative workshops for eighteen years.
Details
Date: TBD
Times: 10am-5pm
Age: 18+; no experience needed
Fees: $125
Max. Class Size: 5
Location: School Street Studios
34 School Street, Watkinsville, GA 30677