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I made my first basket in December of 2000 while at a workshop on the coast of California. During one of the breaks I found myself holding a bundle various shades of raffia. It was a moment of enlightenment and inspiration as I sat and creatively wove while listening to the soothing sounds of the Pacific Ocean. I knew then that I needed to seek out the knowledge and wisdom of this craft. Inspiration… or maybe it was just common sense that told me I needed help getting beyond the small birds nest looking thing I held in my hand! I’m fortunate to live in the Pacific Northwest where there is no shortage of talented and passionate weavers, because from that moment on, I began taking classes in as many different materials and techniques as I could. In many ways I’m like a child always asking why, trying to absorb as much information about the world of basketry as possible.

Basketry appeals to my sense of structure and order but also allows room for my evolving wild and impulsive side. I consider myself to be an urban harvester. I love to gather materials; I love the challenge of the hunt! As a result, I use a large variety of materials, which lend themselves to an endless variety of techniques. No material gets overlooked be it traditional (bark, roots, grasses, etc.) or be it a long strand of box strapping hanging out of a dumpster. I believe in using what is available to me, and as a city dweller, sometimes that is trash! Not only does this provide fun and interesting design challenges, but also it has the pleasant side affect of reducing what goes to landfill.

In 1998, my step-grandmother died. A marvelous woman, who, I then learned, had sung in the church choir for over 50 years. How exciting I thought, to be dedicated to something like that for over 50 years! A quick calculation told me that if I wanted the opportunity to participate in an activity for over 50 years, I needed to start right away. So here I am at the beginning of what I hope to be a long and wondrous journey through the world of basketry.

 

Therese currently teaches at the Multnomah Art Center and at the Contemporary Crafts Museum through Portland Community College. You can see current class offerings and baskets by her at www.fisherartstudio.com.