As a contemporary visual artist I've been exploring the traditional art of weaving with plant fibers since 1985. I gather materials respectfully, recycling bark off of trees that are being cut down, pruning selectively to encourage the growth and health of plants, and replanting at every opportunity. I enjoy sharing the lessons I've learned from my generous teachers.
Being a hands-on, low-tech type person, I will do my best to make weekly (or at least monthly) posts. I like writing about the making process, worthwhile community projects, and sharing practical ideas of what the seasons have to offer those who are longing to live creatively within the rhythms of the natural world.
The Suquamish Basket Marsh
The Suquamish Basket Marsh is an outdoor living classroom filled with native plants.
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Workshop at North Cascades Institute 2012
I’ll be teaching a fun class inspired by the Northwest landscape and First Peoples traditional uses of the plant fiber resources. Come to this rejuvenating Artist’s Retreat in the beautiful North Cascades. Be sure to ask NCI about how to qualify for a partial tuition scholarship. A description and details are available at the North Cascades […]
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Traditional Fishing Weir
Ed Carriere has made the largest open-twined cedar root and limb basket I’ve come across.
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Studio Spring Cleaning
Results are fleeting, but it feels great to clean out the studio, finding lots of bark to work with.
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Baby Towhee
Young Spotted Towhee, and the first butterfly of the season.
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Artist in Residence at IslandWood
Sharing an ethnobotany lesson with 5th graders at IslandWood, on Bainbridge Island, Washington.
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Weaving Rattles
Use materials from the Pacific Northwest landscape to weave unique sound-makers.
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My Studio is a Place of Joy
So much good happens inside a dedicated studio space.
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Maidenhair Fern
This early spring gem lights up our path on the gray days in May.
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Paper Making and Sculptural Work
Have fun making sculptural vessels that express your creative nature.
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Wild Herb and Flower Basket
This seasonal basket captures the bounty of the summer garden.
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Cedar Limb Bread Tray
Learn how to split cedar limbs and make a beautiful Bread Tray
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