
Sumac Branch Weaving
This introductory class on experimental weaving transforms ordinary sumac branches into looms. Participants will learn fundamental weaving techniques using up-cycled materials and found objects.

Plein Air - Walk and Weave
We will begin the evening by constructing a loom frame using branches and twine. After learning some basic weaving techniques and examining various examples, we will pack into a Paddlefish Adventures van and head to Standing Cedars Land Conservancy to collect natural materials to create plein air weaving while walking along the beautiful paths. Long grasses, fallen twigs, colorful leaves, and textured bark will form a lovely composition. We will conclude back at Treehaus Studio with a fun show-and-tell, where we can share our unique, ephemeral weavings.

Land Art: ALa Andy Goldsworthy
Andy Goldsworthy is one of our most well-known environmental artists. He has been engaged in outdoor art-making since the 1970s. His decades of practice have fostered a humble and sensitive attention to form, light, color, condition, and temporality. Like many land artists, he exclusively uses natural materials found at the site of his creations, avoiding glue, rope, or other artificial tools. This approach allows him to understand the intrinsic qualities of the natural materials.

Intuitive Paint and Stitch (Copy)
Join us for a class that focuses on creating and enhancing painting surfaces using textiles. We will begin by drawing inspiration from our surroundings and observing the colors, lines, forms, and movements around us. Then, you can explore acrylic paint in a relaxed environment, painting freely and loosely on canvas. As the class progresses, you will incorporate textiles into your paintings.

Field Notes: Fall
Pack your sketchbook bags; this mixed-media outdoor adventure combines exploration, detailed sketching, research, and writing. Field Notes encourages you to dedicate time to building a library of inspiration from outdoor exploration and observation. It serves as a platform to capture nature, document your surroundings, and engage in play and experimentation.

Intro to Paintbrush Making
Join us for an exciting workshop that explores the artistry of traditional brush making! Discover both time-honored and modern techniques for crafting brushes using natural materials such as deer tail, human hair and horsehair.

Fall Paint & Paddle - St. Croix River
Join us for a beautiful paddle down the St. Croix River with artist and naturalist Amy Mester and enjoy a day dedicated to slow observation, sketching, and watercolor activities.

Treehaus booyah
We are thrilled to invite you to our first annual Treehaus Booyah (boo·yaa) party at the Treehaus Studio at the Acreage. Booyah is a fall stew tradition of the Upper Midwest, cooked outdoors in a giant kettle to feed the masses.

Ceramic Curio Shelf
In this hand-building ceramic workshop, we’ll use slabs and coils to create curiosity shelves, which provide a beautiful display for small, treasured nature collectibles.

Clay Sculpture - St. Croix River Turtles (Copy)
The St. Croix and Namekagon rivers are home to eight species of turtles, which you can often see basking on rocks, logs, and along the shores. Join us for a two-part workshop where we will explore the turtles that inhabit the St. Croix River Valley and use that knowledge to create beautiful ceramic sculptures.

Edible Bugs! Exploring the Winter Habits of River Bugs (Copy)
Have you ever wondered what happens to all the river bugs in winter? Join us for a cozy day of baking warm bread while learning about the fascinating bugs of the St. Croix River! Each participant will receive their own bread dough to shape and roll into a bug friend that they can eat.