Smithsonian American Art Museum
American Craft Masterpieces at the Renwick Gallery

 

We have a monthly series at the Renwick Gallery in which staff members talk about their favorite works on view. This is a great opportunity to learn more about the fabulous contemporary craft objects in our collection. The next one in the series is on May 16, when Deputy Chief of Operations Fern Bleckner will discuss John Cederquist's Ghost Boy. Visit our  online calendar for more info.    

 

Last month, Renwick staffer Rebecca Robinson talked about Mary Jackson's Low Basket with Handle. Here, she reveals how much she learned about the artist and the sweetgrass basket weaving community.

    

Low Basket with Handle"When I researched Mary Jackson's basket, I discovered that not only is she a talented and amazing artist, but she is also an ambassador to the sweetgrass basket weaving community. This traditional craft is practiced only around the area of Charleston, South Carolina, and is passed down from generation to generation. Mary began learning the technique from her mother and grandmother when she was only 4 years old. After high school she started taking the same materials and techniques and created designs that no one had ever done before. Today Mary continues to weave baskets using traditional techniques while also working to preserve the craft by exhibiting her designs and teaching it to her daughter and granddaughter.  

 

I was also fascinated to learn about the conservation issues related to sweetgrass basket weaving. Over the years it has become more difficult to find the grass because of new real-estate developments, which cause the grass to be bulldozed or prevent those who harvest the grass from accessing it. However, Mary along with others from the community have made an incredible effort towards conserving these materials so that the tradition can continue. I truly believe that Mary's recognition and her contributions to the field bring a national presence to this historical craft."

 

  

-- Georgina 

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Smithsonian American Art Museum 

8th & F Streets NW

Washington, D.C. 20004

 

Renwick Gallery

Pennsylvania Ave at 17th Street NW

Washington, D.C. 20006


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