Melinda West | West Gardens Basketry

Growing, gathering, and weaving with plant fibers from the Pacific Northwest

Grateful for a Community That Supports Local Artists

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On the second weekend each November, Cultural Arts Foundation Northwest presents the Art in the Woods Studio Tour. Many talented artists who mostly work in isolation throughout the year come out of the “woods” to share their work. The studios are open Friday through Sunday from 10-5 each day. This is a fun event for those who like to see art, be … [Read more...]

Togetherness (Formed Cherry-Bark)

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This summer, Sydni Sterling opened her studio during the annual Indianola Days Festival, and I was fortunate to show my new work in her beautiful garden courtyard. Sterling Studio has been on the roster of the Art in the Woods studio tour that takes place in North Kitsap each November, and this is where Sydni sells her contemporary and expressive … [Read more...]

About Melinda

Forty years ago, while sitting on the beach playing with my young children, I made my first basket out of a pile of willow trimmings someone had tossed there. It looked wildly made like a crazy bird’s nest. While being together with my two sons on a beautiful Pacific Northwest shoreline, this simple experience of crafting with the natural materials at hand kindled a passion for creating forms using plant fibers. I thank my family, my community, and all my teachers for cultivating this gift in me.
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Melinda West and basket, Indianola WA