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.
Read MoreWorkshop 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 […]
Read MoreTraditional Fishing Weir
Ed Carriere has made the largest open-twined cedar root and limb basket I’ve come across.
Read MoreStudio Spring Cleaning
Results are fleeting, but it feels great to clean out the studio, finding lots of bark to work with.
Read MoreBaby Towhee
Young Spotted Towhee, and the first butterfly of the season.
Read MoreArtist in Residence at IslandWood
Sharing an ethnobotany lesson with 5th graders at IslandWood, on Bainbridge Island, Washington.
Read MoreWeaving Rattles
Use materials from the Pacific Northwest landscape to weave unique sound-makers.
Read MoreMy Studio is a Place of Joy
So much good happens inside a dedicated studio space.
Read MoreMaidenhair Fern
This early spring gem lights up our path on the gray days in May.
Read MoreWild Herb and Flower Basket
This seasonal basket captures the bounty of the summer garden.
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