From the Hands of a Weaver: Olympic Peninsula Basketry through Time

Native artists on the Olympic Peninsula have created coiled and woven baskets using tree roots, bark, plant stems, and meticulous skill for millennia. "From the Hands of a Weaver" presents the traditional art of basket making among the peninsula's Native peoples, particularly women, and showcases the basketry collection of Olympic National Park. The essays explore the commonalities and distinct weaving styles and techniques of these cultures, reflecting important social changes over time. The book also discusses poaching of cedar and native grasses and conservation efforts.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 264 pages
Publication date: 21 January 2022
Publisher: University of Oklahoma Press

For countless generations, indigenous artists residing on the Olympic Peninsula, situated in the present-day northwest region of Washington, have honed their craft by creating intricate coiled and woven baskets. These remarkable creations are fashioned from a diverse range of materials, including tree roots, bark, plant stems, and a profound mastery of technique.
In her captivating book titled "From the Hands of a Weaver," author Jacilee Wray delves into the rich tapestry of basket-making traditions among the Native peoples of the Olympic Peninsula, with a special focus on the artistry of women. Through vivid illustrations and informative essays, the book explores the ancient, historic, and modern practices of this craft, shedding light on the cultural significance of baskets in the daily lives of the Klallam, Twana, Quinault, Quileute, Hoh, and Makah cultures.
For thousands of years, baskets have played a pivotal role in the daily existence of these indigenous communities. These meticulously crafted containers were designed primarily for carrying and storing food, serving as essential tools for survival and sustenance. The authors of the essays included in this volume, comprising both Native individuals and esteemed academics, delve into the shared characteristics and distinct weaving styles of these cultures. They examine the intricate interplay between basketry and indigenous knowledge, highlighting how alterations in the art over time reflect significant social changes.
Volume editor Jacilee Wray employs primary-source material and insightful interviews to showcase how Olympic Peninsula craftspeople actively contributed to the growth of the commercial basket industry. These skilled artisans transformed practical yet beautiful objects into cherished works of art, garnering appreciation on a global scale. Other contributors address contemporary challenges faced by basket makers, such as the poaching of cedar and native grasses, emphasizing the importance of conservation efforts to preserve this heritage art form.
In addition to its scholarly value, "From the Hands of a Weaver" offers a wealth of information for both scholars and collectors. Appendices provide detailed profiles of weavers, identifying their cultural affiliations and attributing specific weaves to each community. This comprehensive reference guide enhances the reader's understanding of the diverse weaving traditions of the Native Northwest, making it an invaluable resource for those passionate about cultural heritage and basket-making.
With over 120 captivating photographs and line drawings, this visually stunning book showcases the rich cultural heritage of the distinct Native Northwest peoples. It provides a glimpse into the lives of historical and twentieth-century weavers, capturing their expertise and the beauty of their baskets. "From the Hands of a Weaver" serves as a testament to the enduring spirit and creativity of these indigenous communities, highlighting their contributions to the world of basket-making and preserving their unique traditions for future generations.

Weight: 653g
Dimension: 254 x 203 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780806144719