Baskets
I have always collected things since I was a small child- postcards, shells, seedpods, sticks. Making baskets and sculptural work with plant fibres became a natural extension of a lifelong habit! Now I collect and dry plants, vines, and recycled materials to weave and twine into practical, functional items as well as forms that are sculptural and artistic in nature. Each work is imbued with meaning often with seedspods, shells or textiles found in places I’ve holidayed in or travelled to adding another dimension of context in relation to locality or of personal significance.
I have learnt some of the many different basketry skills and techniques from lots of talented practitioners across all states of Australia whilst attending National Basketry Gatherings, held in a different state every two years. I have been lucky enough to experience and learn traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island techniques and use local materials in Ramingining, Northern Territory with Yolgnu women; with the Boolang Ngamai Co-op from the NSW SouthCoast; Torres Strait Island women on Hammond Island and men from Erub Island weavers; Jaggera and Mulunjali women in Brisbane and Scenic Rim; Ellen Trevorrow of the Ngarrindjeri on the Coorong in South Australia as well as International Basketmakers from England, USA, Scotland and Norfolk Island. I am always respectful of cultural practice and knowledge and value and appreciate these shared experiences on country and in community. I live in the Yugambeh language area and pay my respects always, to elders past, present and emerging.