The 2009 NY Woodlanders Gathering
created an atmosphere where people relaxed and found the time for hands-on exploration and knowing of the natural world, and develop artful thinking. There was talking, visiting, wandering and organized workshops and activities. Everything was designed to foster freedom of exploration, insight, creativity, skill building, earth stewardship, and solid group experiences.The goal wasto help people discover what is most wonderful about themselves and to foster awareness and appreciation of others, and the world around them. written by environmental artist, Laurie Seeman, about the workshops she offers.
The New York Gathering was NOT a school or even a set of craft workshops. Oh yes, lots of making and some instruction happened, but the whole event began as a form of community-building. Pot Luck, Fellowship and Sharing are key elements of the Gatherings. Rob Gorrell started the tradition of bringing things, supplies, materials for a Big, Free Swap. There were two tents and 24 tables for a three-day series of never-ending workshops... which meant the materials and tools are available all the time... and instruction and encouragement happens every once and a while. It was a protected time to discover important marginal interests and sleeping passions in your life with natural materials. It's about Wonder. It is not primarily about job training, or even hobby work. It's an alternative learning opportunity for people who need it. It's about the interplay of Nature and Human Nature
2009 NY Gathering notes 
Friday, August 21 to Sunday, August 23, 2009 at The Warwick Center Campgrounds, Warwick, NY
it rained almost all the time
ah, but we ate well! see FOOD EVENTS
Two Tents and 24 Tables of Art and Nature Experiences with tools & materials starting Friday and available all weekend-- with guidance
Who Came (36 people)
What Happened ... at least six ways 
1. MAKING THINGS:
Bull Roarers, Rich Pillar
Make a Bamboo Flute, Matthew Fallon
Making a Rustic Cedar Slab Leopold Bench, Bill Olendorf
Tramp Art-Chip Carving, Rob Gorrell
Weaving Chair/Stool Seats from Shaker Tape, Dan Mack
Rustic Plant Hangers, Jessica Lawlor
Mask making: on papier mache forms
Woodland Garments: imaginal tribal clothing, Andrea Coleman!!
Leopold bench
Working with Palm bark
Mark-Making with Mud, Clay and Charcoal
HEALING: Tissue Paper Collage, Arlene Geiger
HEALING: Mattering Spirit: Imaginal Cards, Dan Mack
HEALING: Making a Rope Labyrinth
Available, but low interest:
Make a Bench Hook: a portable work area,