Sarita Westrup

Sculptural Basketry

October 18 - 23, 2026

Open to All Skill Levels

Baskets, Sculpture

Overview

In this experimental basketry workshop, students will explore ways to build non-functional, sculptural forms using reed and additional materials they bring. The focus will be on twining with reed while experimenting with scale, form, and structure. Students will learn core techniques such as twining in the round, alternative basket starts, backwards twining to create arches, and the bifurcation of spokes. To develop textural surfaces, the workshop will introduce thin-set mortar and experiment with subsequent surface treatments, including powdered graphite, spray paint, and watered-down acrylics. Through hands-on exploration, students will create multiple samples and leave with at least one completed sculptural basket.

Course Fee : $760.00

Scholarships & Material Fees

Need help covering workshop costs? Arrowmont offers financial aid opportunities to broaden access to our arts and craft programs. We believe a diverse community enriches the learning experience for all.

Material fees are not included in our national workshop costs, but are included with the cost of our winter short workshops. A material list with estimated costs will be emailed about 30 days before the national workshop begins.

TUITION & FEES

SCHOLARSHIPS

Cost Breakdown

Registration Fee

$50.00

One Week Workshop Tuition

$760.00

Estimated Cost*
*Fees exclude housing and meal plans

$810.00

VIEW HOUSING & MEAL PLAN COSTS

Artist Bio

Sarita Westrup

Sarita Westrup is a craft-based artist living and working between Texas and North Carolina. Raised in the Rio Grande Valley along the South Texas borderlands, she creates sculptural basketry that explores ideas of place, migration, and cultural memory. Her work weaves together traditional craft processes with contemporary sculptural forms, utilizing unique materials such as rattan, mortar, and natural dye inks. Sarita maintains an active studio practice and teaches basketry workshops throughout the United States. Her work has been exhibited nationally at venues including Erin Cluley Gallery in Dallas, the Penland Gallery in Bakersville, the Center for Craft in Asheville, and El Museo del Barrio in New York, NY.

Artist Website

Explore the Wood Studio

With a dedicated building to all things wood, the John Jordan Wood Building, it should come as no surprise that our wood workshops have developed a bit of a reputation for being the best of the best. A dedicated woodturning studio, machine room, and woodworking studio offer a wide range of equipment and options for students and instructors alike. From woodturning to furniture making, greenwood appliques to carving, the sky is the limit for what our wood workshops can do.

Explore the Wood Studio