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.
Snowberries in Winter
Snowberry is a favorite winter plant.
Sword Fern
Sword Ferns are a common fern in the maritime Pacific Northwest.
December
As the solstice quietly approaches and the natural light diminishes, it seems quite natural to look inward. I search those creative alcoves and journals, the spaces and places where ideas have been lingering. Which of these embers will be born into the material world as the daylight returns? I wonder. Here are some favorite pieces I made in […]
New Work – 2011 Art in the Woods
Here’s a sneak preview of some new work in wild cherry bark. I’ve got many more pieces yet to be photographed where I’ve used a variety of barks I’ve been collecting over the years. What fun it is to finally make the time to work with materials I’ve been collecting and preserving for so many years! I’ll be […]
Artistic Cedar Weavers at North Cascades Institute
Imagine, four sunny days, eating scrumptious meals, hiking the campus trails, swimming in the lake, and weaving together in a creative atmosphere!
Clam Basket – A Story By Ed Carriere
After decades of dreaming, and two years in the making, this story has found a beautiful way to be told.
Sharing a Cultural Art Experience Through Film
Over the past thirty years, it has been a great honor for me to be a witness a cultural revival within the Puget Sound First Peoples communities.
May Passes in a Flurry – A Blurry Month of Growth and Activity
Come to the page and rest, says Julia Cameron in her book “The Artist’s Way”. I have desired this as I do every May. In spring, as the anticipation of its promised glories slowly creep into winter-weathered bones, the business of the season, all that is required, overtakes us like a Tsunami. Planting seeds; […]
Gathering Cedar Bark
Grateful to gather Western red cedar bark this spring.
Some Images of Winter Work
Art makes us look.
West Gardens Harvest Baskets – at Persephone Farm, Indianola, WA – June 1, 2011
We are fortunate that Persephone Farms is in Indianola, growing wonderful local food.
