Hammered Copper Bowls with Stone Tools (July) || with Martha Buche

Using the warm, red metal my Bodewadmi (Potawatomi) relatives call “miskwabik” (copper) and basalt hammer stones from the shores of G’chi gamii (Lake Superior), we will hand-forge bowls on wooden stumps. In a process called “sinking”, or hammering on the inside, we will anneal the metal in a wood fire and form our richly colored, beautiful vessels using the power of our own muscles. Come join us in this elemental journey of copper, fire, water, and stone.
Words from past participants —
"It was a fantastic experience on all fronts. The instructor was wonderful--very helpful and committed to each participant achieving bowl success. It was a very meaningful experience for me to have crafted something with techniques that are thousands of years old."
"Martha is incredibly passionate about her work and this process! When the teacher takes pride in their work and is fully willing to share all knowledge and experience it always makes for an amazing class where everyone leaves with a successful piece and excitement to try again. I would 100% take a class with her again."
"Martha was a very welcoming host and made sure the class felt like a community. I loved learning about the history of copper in the Great Lakes region and the practice of bowl making in Potawatomi culture before we got into the hands-on portion of the class. I enjoyed chatting and collaborating with other participants around the fire."
Date: Sunday, July 19
Time: 9:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Ages: 12+
Materials Fees: $25
Location: Viroqua, WI
Instructions: Please bring a pair of close fitting work gloves to protect your hands from the sharp
metal and, if you wish, a pair of safety goggles. This class will take place in a workshop with a wood burning stove; we recommend dressing in layers.
Sliding Scale Course Fee Guidelines (not including Materials Fees)
Supporter Level Ticket: $70
If you move through the world with financial ease and the means to fulfill many of your wants as well as your needs – you are able to eat out when you want, abundantly meet your needs through employment or can comfortably not work, have access to family wealth, own property, etc. – consider paying at this level, which will help us ensure the long term sustainability of our programs while keeping our offerings accessible to those with access to fewer resources.
Sustainer Level Ticket: $55