Participants explore the essential techniques of weaving and building with plant-based materials in order to design large-scale structures.

The workshop centers on the creation of an evolving collective work—a true large-scale experimental space—as well as a more intimate individual sculpture, allowing each participant to develop their own formal language.

Day 1

Afternoon

• Identifying raw materials in their natural environment
• Exploring materials and their mechanical and aesthetic properties (wicker and local wood species)
• In-depth exploration of the materials’ characteristics
• Sorting and preparing the strands according to their diameter and flexibility
• Adapting the elements to the basic structure

Day 2

Morning

• Setting up the framework on the ground
• Designing the structure and positioning the main posts
• Techniques for tying and stabilizing the base

Afternoon

• Reinforcement of the structure
• Consolidation of anchors and joints
• Stabilization of the overall framework

Day 3

Morning

• Anchoring techniques: grouping and guiding the strands
• Development of curves and volumes

Afternoon

• Continuing the Build-Up
• Structuring organic shapes and forms

Day 4

Morning

• Deepening of shaping techniques
• Construction and structuring of the walls

Afternoon

• Tying off strands and securing tension
• Aesthetic integration into the space

Day 5

Morning

• Design and development of an individual project
• Application of small-scale weaving techniques
• Finalization and evaluation of the project and pieces
• Finishing and securing the structures
• Educational review and assessment of learning outcomes

Marie Drouet

Marie Drouet is a basket weaver who skillfully blends the traditional art of plant weaving with a decidedly contemporary aesthetic. From her studio in the Val d’Oise, she collaborates with professionals in the luxury, interior design, and design industries, who are drawn to the originality and sensitivity of her creations.

Her work is rooted in her mastery of ancient, often rare, artisanal techniques, which she uses to create one-of-a-kind pieces. She favors natural materials such as wicker, grown in France, as part of a deeply environmentally conscious approach.

Marie’s works take the form of lighting fixtures, decorative pieces, and custom-made items, where wicker interacts with other materials—leather, rope, fabric, and metal—which she selects with care and loves to upcycle. This exploration of materials gives rise to organic creations that straddle the line between art and design.

Curious and open-minded, she readily combines different skills by collaborating with other artisans or through her own research.

During this workshop, she will place special emphasis on flat weaving, which she explores as a decorative wall art form in its own right.

A former interior designer, Marie did not originally set out to enter the world of basketry. After a period of doubt and self-reflection, she was able to turn her passion into a career.

Today, she embodies a new generation of artisans, guided by a vision that is both sensitive and entrepreneurial.

• Classrooms, multipurpose rooms, workshops with professional equipment
• Supply of materials
• Individual and collaborative work
• Workshop-based work
• Active participation and hands-on experimentation by participants are emphasized

• Group and personalized progress tracking, regular updates
• Self-assessment of technical skills
• Group presentation
• Attendance sheet by half-day
• Certificate of completion issued by Campus MaNa