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Basketry Book Review
Publisher: Merrell Holberton
Publishers, London
ISBN: 1858940788
by Mary Butcher
This book is published as an
exhibition catalogue to accompany the major touring exhibition Contemporary International
Basketmaking organized by the Crafts Council, London and the Whitworth Art Gallery,
Manchester, England. The exhibit itself tours six venues. Twenty-seven contemporary
British makers are represented. Their work is mixed with the work of a broad and important
complement of international artists and artisans. The exhibit was mounted to in part to
challenge the understanding of just what is a basket. It is meant to encourage the
practice of basketmaking, as well as raise the understanding and establish a proper status
for contemporary baskets and basketmakers.
The book begins with a review of the
origins of contemporary basketmaking. It examines not only the traditional and modern
history of basketmaking in Europe, but the origin and cultural significance of basketry
worldwide. An essay by Laurel Reuter provides context of the development of basketmaking
as art in North America. The book continues with an interview process where individual
artists respond in their own voices to a series of questions probing their approach to and
view of their work. Interspersed throughout, the vivid color images of individual objects
and artists at work add a visual reference point. The third major component of the book
explores basketmaking technique. Each of the major construction categories is discussed
and illustrated with selections from the exhibited works. An International resources list,
exhibits list and extensive bibliography are included as well.
 Mary Butcher is a
teacher, lecturer, researcher, curator and author working primarily with willow. She
travels in Europe and the United States teaching and researching both traditional and
contemporary basketmaking. She is a research Fellow in Basketmaking at Manchester
Metropolitan University and the author of books on willow work and chair seating.
This book is not targeted towards a
reader seeking how-to information or instruction on materials processing for basketry. It
is rather directed towards the serious student of the art form looking for a depth of
meaning and understanding of historical context, contemporary artist recognition and
technique in the field of basketry.
Buy
this Book
A quick note to authors and
publishers... I will be reviewing basketry-related books periodically. I have a
small stack of review copies to begin with, but if you are an author or publisher and
would like to take part, just contact me
to let me
know what books you would like reviewed. Thank you for your help!
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