Who We Are
Artisans for Reciprocal Culture is a collective of natural builders devoted to carrying forward the craft of building in right relationship.
We exist at the intersection of skill, land, and culture — not only to build structures, but to help reweave a way of living where materials are honored, labor is respected, and knowledge is shared in ways that are accessible, embodied, and rooted in reciprocity.
In a time where much of the building world is shaped by extraction — of land, of labor, of resources — we are committed to a different orientation. One that centers respect for the earth, reverence for material, and responsibility in how knowledge is passed on.
We believe that natural building is not simply an alternative construction method. It is a cultural practice. A remembering of how humans can live, build, and create shelter in alignment with place.
As a collective, we are devoted to:
• Preserving and evolving natural building techniques
• Making meaningful, hands-on education accessible to the next generation
• Supporting pathways into the natural building field that are grounded, skill-based, and relational
• Cultivating spaces of learning that honor both the craft and the people learning it
At the heart of our work is a simple principle: what we receive, we are responsible
to pass forward to the next generation of builders.
Our Approach
We offer educational opportunities in Natural Building: Honoring Earth’s wisdom by using sustainable, locally sourced materials.
We Promote Artisan Craftsmanship: Preserving traditional building methods, such as timber framing and earth plasters, through hands-on learning.
Hands-On Learning: Fostering creativity, joy, and community through immersive workshops and apprenticeships.
As such, we operate as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that offers educational opportunities in natural building and funnels donations into building projects that benefit the community.
Meet the Teachers
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Josh Burg and Sara Crippen
Clay Sand Soul Founders - cob building workshops and more!
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Ashley McDonald
Leader of Natural building workshops and founder of Root to Rise Design
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Jirka Vrsek
Lead Timberframer with a passion for intricate design. Cofounder of Rijka Timberframes.
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Ryan Kirkby
Experienced natural builder, timber framer, and founder of ARC11. Cofounder of Rijka timberframes.
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John Hutton
Natural building architect with a focus on hemp-lime buildings
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Lydia Doleman
Natural builder and carpenter, writer and founder of Earth Dragon Natural Building LLC
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Kyle Alexander
Plastering expert and owner of Gold Hill Clay
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Kyle Holzhäuser
Master in Japanese Plastering and Natural building techniques
Meet the Support Team
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Ryan Kirkby
Experienced natural builder, timber framer, and founder of ARC11
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Angelica Lemke
Visionary and Organizational Support and founder of ARC11
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Jennifer Edson
Visionary and Organizational Support