-
This workshop centers on learning basketry as both a technical skill and a way of relating — to materials, to form, and to community.
Participants are guided step by step through building a basket from the ground up. Along the way, they learn how natural materials behave, how to work with tension and form, and how small changes can shift the overall structure. Early challenges are part of the experience; many find the beginning to be the most difficult, requiring patience and focus. With time, the work settles into a rhythm, and each person finds their own pace.
A key part of the experience is recognizing when something isn’t working and being willing to adjust, including unweaving sections to bring the basket back into balance. This becomes both a practical skill and a meaningful reflection point.
The workshop is grounded in the cultural context of basketry, with teachings rooted in Yosemite Ahwahneechee, Mono Lake Paiute, Coast Miwok, and Kashia Pomo lineages. Participants are introduced to values such as respect for materials, the importance of asking rather than taking, and the role of knowledge carried across generations, all shared in a way that is direct and accessible.
The group experience is steady and collaborative. Each person works on their own piece while participating in a shared environment — offering support, learning from one another, and moving through moments of challenge and completion together.
The workshop closes with a collective basket dance led by Ursula and accompanied by song — an important cultural practice that honors the work, the materials, and the lineage from which the tradition comes.
Across the two days, themes often emerge around relationship — to land, to community, and to the continuity of knowledge carried through making.
-
10:00 am - 12:00 pm ~ Morning Session
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm ~ Lunch
1:00 pm - 3:00 pm ~ Afternoon Session
Lunch will be provided at noon on both days, and you can choose to stay and enjoy with the group, or take some time for yourself.
-
Our workshop takes place at Midpines Park & Community Hall, a welcoming public space just outside Mariposa. The Hall offers heating, cooling, and restrooms, while the surrounding park features shaded picnic tables, outdoor art installations, and a seasonal creekbed perfect for inspiration and reflection.
The park is easily accessible via the YARTS bus, which stops directly on-site — a great option for sustainable travel. Parking is available, however it is limited, so we encourage you to take advantage of the bus.
-
We ask that every participant comes ready to ask questions, listen carefully, and treat the materials thoughtfully—understanding that the plants were living beings and deserve respect in how they are handled and transformed.
Please bring the following for a comfortable experience:
Blanket, towel, or camp chair; something to sit on outdoors.
Sun protection, layers, insect repellant if you need. We will spend as much time outdoors as possible, so prepare yourself for maximum comfort and variable weather.
Refillable water bottle and thermos or insulated mug for tea
If you are able to bring your own plate and utensils for lunch, this will be a great help for staff and will cut down on waste.
This is hands-on work requiring focus and presence. Working with natural materials can be challenging and deeply rewarding. Participants are encouraged to come with an open heart, patience, and willingness to move through discomfort as part of the learning.
-
Registration for this workshop includes the following:
Detailed, professional instruction, fresh ideas rooted in cultural arts continuance practices, and personalized guidance throughout the process.
All necessary activity supplies.
A make-your-own sandwich bar lunch will be provided. We source organic ingredients whenever possible and can include gluten free options.
Tea, coffee and snacks
-
In order to ensure we have enough supplies and lunch for everyone, PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED
-
No prior experience is necessary! This offering is open to all who are excited to learn and explore a new skill in a community setting.
-
How much does it cost?
This workshop is free, thanks to a generous grant from California State Parks, the California Arts Council, and Parks California.
If you’d like to support future programs like this, donations to Balanced Rock will help us continue offering accessible, subsidized experiences for years to come.
-
This workshop will run rain or shine. We will have an indoor space that is heated in case of inclement weather.
Meet Your Facilitator
URSULA MINNEAH JONES
Ursula Min-ne-ah Jones is a traditional basket weaver and teacher born and raised in Yosemite Valley, with roots in Yosemite Ahwahneechee, Mono Lake Paiute, Coast Miwok and Kashia Pomo traditions.
She comes from a living lineage of basket weavers spanning five generations of women in her family, including her grandmother Julia Parker, and now her own role as a grandmother. Family is central to Ursula’s life and work, and her teaching reflects a collective, relational way of being—where stories, laughter, care, and skill are woven together.
A skilled and intuitive weaver, she teaches with generosity and humor, making basketry accessible while honoring its cultural depth and integrity. Active in Native Wellbriety communities, Ursula brings a values-based, life-affirming perspective to all she does.