A CELEBRATION OF BASKETS

Judy K Wilson

Baskets are a passion for me. I absolutely love making them. Where ever I go in my travels, I always look for old baskets. I love seeing all the different weaving techniques, particularly in Native American baskets. You will see that character running through many of my baskets and kits, as I am a part of the Cherokee Nation. I am 1/8 Cherokee through my Great Grandmother.

As designs are woven in, that keeps weaving life interesting for me. I most enjoy weaving a basket when it looks exactly the way I want it to look, as it is being created, I want the basket to flow and to speak to others, as it speaks to me. I am totally self taught and am the creator of waxed linen baskets. I also created my own line of coiled baskets and gourds. I just like to do my own "thing".

Each basket I make is and will always be a part of me. No matter where that basket travels, part of me will be there also. It is satisfying for me to know that I bring a certain amount of joy and beauty into other people's lives, when they appreciate my baskets. I love seeing the look on people's faces when they see my baskets for the first or many times. It is a priceless feeling.

Thanks to each of you who have been a part of my 32 years of weaving, creating and teaching.