Words from Josie Cooke, Instructor of Fiber Arts
Sometimes, the best places are found by following a friend’s recommendation and a winding path. For instructor Josie Cooke, that path led to Avon Hills Folk School—a place full of creativity, connection, and community. What began as a weekend of teaching and gathering at Artists and Makers Camp soon became something more: a place where she felt truly at home.
In her own words, Josie shares how she found inspiration, lasting friendships, and a sense of purpose through teaching and returning to Avon Hills year after year.
For me, becoming acquainted with Avon Hills Folk School was a little meandering down a path in the woods, looking for a blueberry patch your friends told you about. After attending traditional skills gatherings through the years, I began hearing from fellow craft friends of a weekend get together full of making and fun. By the time I found my way there a few years later, the event had grown more organized, as Artists and Makers Camp, scheduled every September, in the enchanting Avon Hills. I had been teaching classes here and there, and was exploring new classes and seeking additional venues. That year at Artists and Makers camp I taught drop spindle spinning, in an adorable Robinson Crusoe-esce “tree house” classroom, warmed by wood stove and the welcome of the school director, Chris, and his family. After a weekend of late night bonfires, shared pancake breakfasts, mushroom hunting hikes, craft and community, I rolled out the driveway thinking “this is it”, this is what I want to do- be a craft teacher, in these communities. Months later a student reached out to share that she had spun yarn and knit a sweater, and another started a business making fiber for spinning. I felt connected to their journeys, as I was connected to those who taught me.
I have returned to teach at Avon Hills Folk School on several occasions, and continue to enjoy warm welcomes, thoughtful preparation, engaging conversations, enthusiastic students, and the beauty of the land. Getting to know Chris, Cathy, Jordan, the staff, the neighbors, and the cats has made me feel welcomed as family. I always look forward to coming back.
Want to read more about Artists and Makers Camp? Check it out here!