A Textile Art without Machinery: Baskets from the May Collection

Location

Saints Tekakwitha and Serra Hall, Room 214A

Free

Basketry is one of the most widespread and ancient of mankind’s crafts. It is also a universally practiced art form, for basket makers everywhere have sought to create objects that are not only wonderfully useful, but also aesthetically delightful. The art of basketry shows the development of technique, form, and decoration far beyond utilitarian requirements. The point was not lost on Native American cultures, who valued the products of skilled basket makers for their usefulness and for the pleasure of possessing art works of extraordinary beauty. This exhibit makes use of the David W. May basketry collection to highlight the art of Native American basketry in the Southwest and Far West from the late 19th century to the present. It looks at the techniques, styles, and traditions used in making these works of art.