ABOUT THE ARTISAN

Domingos Romeira Vaz loves the land and does his best to keep the craft of cane basketry alive. He learned the arts and skills of the Serra Algarvia from an early age, first building toys, then objects imitating agricultural implements and activities. He was born on the Alta Mora ridge, between two of the largest tributary streams of the great River Guadiana, Odeleite and Beliche, whose banks are abundant with cane, reeds, some cattail and pita leaves.

 

 

SUMMARY

Wild cane basketry is an extremely interesting practice because of the material it uses. The cane that grows wild near watercourses and is harvested to clear fields has been used to its full extent and for various purposes by generations over the centuries. During this week in September, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in this know-how through the traditional Alentejo technique, while experiencing the way of being and the culture of this region. Master Domingos Vaz will take you through the whole process so that you can learn the most sustainable way of harvesting this material, all the precepts of its preparation, the interweaving and adornment of your own basket.

 

 

PROGRAMME

Participants who wish can stay from Sunday and will be welcomed by the team.

 

MONDAY JUNE 9TH

09H00-10H TOUR OF THE TOWN

guided walk to explore the town, its establishments, spaces and people.

 

10H00-12H WORKSHOP PART 1

introduction to cane basketry

basket design

 

12:00-13:30 PICKING

harvesting cane and other materials

 

17:00 WALK

Guided walk through the countryside and collection of inspiration for the development of the basket (e.g. photography, drawing or even elements of the local flora).

 

TUESDAY, JUNE 10TH

9H00-13H WORKSHOP PART 2

preparing the cane and other materials

preparing the bottom

 

17H00 WORKSHOP PART 3

continuation of the basket, construction of the wall and cats

 

 

WEDNESDAY JUNE 11TH

9H00-13H00 WORKSHOP PART 4

preparing the reeds for the edging

building the lid

 

17h00 VISIT TO ALVITO

guided tour of the village of Alvito, exploring its cultural and natural heritage

 

THURSDAY JUNE 12TH

9H00-13H00 WORKSHOP PART 5

Completing the basket and decorative techniques

Other uses for cane

 

17h00 VISIT TO ALVITO

guided tour of the village of Alvito, exploring its cultural and natural heritage

after the Alvito RF, snack at Papa-Borregos at an additional cost per person (snack optional).

 

FRIDAY, JUNE 13TH

free day and offer to stay at Casa Spira

 

 

MATERIALS

You should bring a pocket knife and tight-fitting gardening gloves.