As I was reviewing this bio thought that biographies are nice, but they fall so far short of all that the artist portrays. One doesn't see the sparkle in their eye when they talk about their art, or the willingness to share with others the knowledge of their art. Kathy loves to teach and share her experiences and all that she has learned on her journey to be the amazing basket maker she is. There is one class scheduled for April 22, 2014 from 10AM to 3PM if you could join us to share this experience you can contact her at kabob@excel.net or contact the studio, Seranya Studio Art Boutique (www.seranyastudios.com) or leave a comment on this post and I will be sure to get the information to you.
In Kathy's own words her love for baskets started in an attic! In 1995 while cleaning out her grandfather's attic she found several black-ash, sweet grass and pine needle baskets tucked among the piles of boxes and crates. While some were in terrible shape, most were in excellent condition revealing a lot about the weaver's techniques. She said later she learned that all of the baskets were made by her great grandmother Clara. Clara had lived and worked during most of her adult life on the Lac du Flambeau reservation in northern Wisconsin. Kathy thought WOW, what a find both artistically and emotionally.
In her own words she indicated that as soon as I was able, I took a local class in beginning basket weaving and from then on I was absolutely hooked. Seeking out classes and workshops over several years I was able to participate in many workshops with nationally acclaimed weavers. Soon people were asking if I would teach them how to make a basket, another beginning. Since my retirement from education I have focused on exploring new techniques from different cultures and life styles. I am excited about harvesting and using natural materials to embellish my basket designs, dragging my husband with me as we look for deer sheds, horsetail grass and downed birch trees. With all the guidance I have gained from others, I know I am developing a style of my own both in design and materials.
I am looking forward to being at Seranya Studios Art Boutique as a contributing artist and an instructor.
Hopefully, I will be able to pass on some of Clara's and my ardor for baskets.
Stay tuned.
Kathy's baskets are truly lovely, as is Kathy herself. I used to weave baskets -many years ago - but I never had the dedication to learning the history, purposes, and forms of basketry like Kathy has. I think this makes her baskets more authentic, while still artful. I look forward to watching her as new things emerge and her classes get started. Thanks for sharing this article, Lynda.
ReplyDeleteI agree with both of your statements--that both Kathy and her baskets are awesome. I am so looking forward to learning this art and hope others will join in the fun too.
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