TTT free Skillshare sessions, offered by individuals to boost the community's resilience, continue to delight! We've recently enjoyed a weaving workshop lead by Chris Hart, who runs the Totnes Spinning Group, and learnt how easy it is to turn an old T-shirt (or even plastic bags) into a yarn, and this into all kind of things – bags, scarves, rugs, etc. More sessions planned when Chris gets her health back (our best wishes, Chris!).
Over a lunchtime, Michelle Le Vieux shared with us her psychological insights on emotions and explained how to use their energy as wonderful food for our 'inner garden'. We learnt what to do when feeling bad, sad or mad, and how to cultivate feeling glad! I only felt sad… that I'd left my camera behind, and glad that Michelle might offer another session in the future.
Sushi-making the Japanese way with Shimako proved very popular, and those left on a waiting list can look forward to another session soon! I had the chance to watch one of the participants, Constantin, making use of his new skill the following day: he was making an impressive quantity of stunning sushis with his fiancée for a farewell party. Some Totnes skills, imported from Japan, are on their way to Hawaii!
The Mini-Beast Safari at Leechwell Garden attracted many budding entomologists. If you missed Bugman's friendly session but would love to learn about our insect friends – and help save the bees – you can catch him again at a March of the Bees event in Plymouth in early July , with a Bumble Jumble in Totnes on June 23rd (Methodist Church, 11 am to 3 pm) to raise money for this. And he is giving another free skillshare session within the Woodland Olympics at the Hillyfield on July 8th , with link to Facebook page for the event – or TTT calendar).
Coming up is singing with Selena on June 13th and 20th Improvisational Singing followed by Sing and Bring your kids! – see www.medleymusic.co.uk). On June 20th there's also a unique chance to enjoy foraging with expert Dave Hamilton (author of many books and articles, see also www.selfsufficentish.com) on a Wild Food Walk. Meet at 9 am, at Schumacher College's car park . Dave is currently teaching there but also leaving Totnes soon, so catch him while you can!
The Festival of Transition also takes place on June 20th and there will be many other skillshares and other fun and informative activities taking place at the Civic Square between 3 and 6 pm. You can try mosaic-making, upcycling, face-painting, storytelling, cooking and much else. Why don't you bring your own skill to share? This is a great occasion to practice in a fun and friendly environment. Skills from kids (bring your Lego?) and elders equally welcome.
To receive all information on free skillshares - or to offer one! - please contact tttskillshare@gmail.com.