Wind & Wood: Introduction to Kite-making with Kristen Jean Wheatley — Oct 4 - 5

Dates: October 4, 2025 → October 5, 2025
Times: 9am-4pm with one hour lunch break
Level:

Workshop Description:
In this workshop, students will learn the fundamental techniques involved in kite-making, including knot-tying, lashing, sewing, wooden frame construction, and reel design. With my guidance, students will balance their frames, sew durable channels for the kite’s sail, bend the spars, and rig the line for flight.

Along the way, we will also discuss the properties of materials, how wind conditions influence shape, and the importance of resilience in both kite-making and flight. The workshop will provide a brief overview of the history of kites including how they have been used in celebration, art, and scientific discovery.

By the end of the workshop, each student will have completed a functional, flying artwork, ready for launch nearby.

About the Instructor:
Kristen Jean Wheatley is an artist working with activity, circulation, and endurance. By carefully observing both natural and man-made systems, Kristen learns, follows, and responds through artistic production. She was raised in rural Southwest Virginia alongside her five siblings, where she tested herself physically through performing arts and sport. An interest in visual art led her to Virginia Commonwealth University, where she received her BFA in Craft and Material Studies earning her concentration in woodworking. While studying, Kristen was awarded a Dean’s Research Grant, the Cynthia Bringle and Edwina Bringle Scholarship to attend a workshop at Penland School of Craft, and the Windgate University Fellowship to continue learning at Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts.

Her work has been shown in group shows at the Anderson, Murry N. DePillars Gallery, Gallery 263, the Hammer Museum at UCLA, and Snide Hotel. Recent solo exhibitions include ‘PLOT’ at Lazy Eye Gallery and ‘Count the Ways’ exhibited through the Yucca Valley Public Art Program. In 2024, she was awarded a Visual Artist Residency at Vermont Studio Center. Kristen currently lives in 29 Palms, CA, where she works at Yucca Valley Material Lab.

Required Materials:
- None.

Optional Materials:
- Scraps of light fabric (nylon
- silk, or light cottons) for adornment and tail design.