I learned the basics of basket making from two elder women but, I would not use the

  skill until years later when I moved back to Maine and worked with my grandmother.  My

history reflects a long line of basket makers. I come by this tradition as the next

generation.  My work has won awards in Native American art competitions and is

currently exhibited in museums and galleries.  I also have a small shop at my home

where visitors are welcome.  Call me to make an appointment 1-207-827-8688.

Whether a new face or a return visitor, there is always a smile on my face and a bit

of history to share.

The basketry shown here, reflects the traditions of my Penobscot people.  Many of my

tribal customs have been lost for a variety of reasons.  The obvious cause is that our

elders are dying and we, the younger generation have not learned what is needed

to carry on the practices.  I am fortunate that basketry has a strong influence on me.

The biggest task would be finding a way to pass it on as not many are

interested in learning this art form.  This is where the art shows come into play.  Taking

a bold step forward I started competing in juried shows.  With this decision, patrons of

the arts have valued my work as collectible, thus preserving my basketry as well as

educating others to the process of Brown Ash preparation/products.  I have cut back on

local shows in order to provide a more permanent impression of our artistry and

to eliminate the feeling of competition amongst other talented basket makers.  I did

not feel like I could accomplish my goal by stepping on the backs of others, so I

ventured beyond the local markets.  Many of you have had the pleasure of meeting my

apprentice, Carole.  We have worked together for two years and will continue to do so

as she learns all about Brown Ash basketry.  Her work is featured here on the web site.

Many of the fancy baskets are adorned with sweet grass.  This is gathered in the

summer, picked by hand , cleaned and then hung up to dry.  Some will be stored

for binding baskets and for covers that use unbraided grass.  Some will be soaked

and then braided into 100 yard skeins, to be used in decorating fancy baskets.

   

The baskets shown here are just a few from my collection.  Please feel free to contact

through my "E-mail" link below. Make a note of what basket you are inquiring about

and I will give you a price for it.  I ship my work by First Class mail at no charge to

you.  Thank you for your interest in Brown Ash basketry. These baskets are hand

made and they move quickly but, I am able to do special orders.  I would not be able to

supply store owners in large quantities but, you are welcome to inquire and I am

sure we can work something out.

If you are visiting Bangor, Maine by way of the airport, be sure to see the display of

Indian baskets at the Bangor International Airport.  This display is presented by the

Maine Indian Basketmakers Alliance, a group of which I am a member.  The

Abbe Museum is also a fine resource for basketry information, to view collections as

well as purchasing baskets.Your comments are welcomed and there is a guestbook

link on the Index/Home page.  Check back as I am adding new items to my display.

Woli woni!  (Thank you)