Feathers and Twigs

Hi, I’m Kimberly, the artist and maker behind Feathers and Twigs in Berkeley, California.Creativity and teaching have been woven through most of my adult life. I spent more than 20 years teaching in California public schools, and for the past 18 years I’ve also been teaching art and creative workshops. These days, I teach regularly from my third-floor home studio—affectionately known as “Art in the Attic”—a colorful, slightly overflowing creative space filled with fiber, yarn, driftwood, clay, beads, paint, leather, and all sorts of beautiful materials waiting to become something. This light-filled studio is truly my happy place. Fiber art is at the heart of my own creative practice. I create textural wall hangings using macramé, free-form and Saori-inspired weaving, often incorporating handmade ceramic beads, feathers, found driftwood, and other natural elements. But I’ve never wanted to limit myself to just one medium. Over the years I’ve taught everything from weaving, macramé and embroidery to leather craft, watercolor, collage, ceramics, and mixed-media projects.Teaching is one of my favorite parts of being an artist. After decades as an educator, I know that people learn—and create—in very different ways. My workshops aren’t about everyone following directions to make an identical finished piece. I want people to feel comfortable experimenting, choosing materials they’re drawn to, changing their minds, and making something that feels like their own.One of my favorite things is when someone walks into my studio and tells me, “I’m not creative.” I hear it all the time! Usually, they just haven’t been given the right environment to discover that part of themselves. There’s something pretty magical about watching someone settle in, stop worrying about doing it “right, ” and become completely absorbed in making.Over the years, I’ve taught children, teens and adults, as well as private groups, women’s gatherings and creative events. I especially love how making art together creates connection. People talk, laugh, experiment, help one another and often leave feeling a little lighter than when they arrived.My own work is deeply influenced by the colors, textures and landscapes of California, and I’m constantly experimenting with new materials and techniques. My studio is proof that I’m a big believer in creative curiosity—there is almost always a new project underway.Whether you’ve been making art your whole life or haven’t picked up an art supply since elementary school, you’re welcome in my studio. You don’t need to think of yourself as an artist. Just come ready to make something, try something new, and have some fun. I look forward to working and creating with you!