Copperseed Pods

The initial inspiration for this contemporary basketrypiece came from noticing the interesting forms of early summer milkweed pods and the way their tight, curly stems connect back to the stalk. It is not intended to be a literal interpretation, but a more abstract reference to seed pods in general, which I love. The video included shows a bit of the weaving process (at much faster than actual speed).

This piece juried into an exhibition called "All Things Considered 9: Basketry in the 21st Century", by the National Basketry Organization. It was part of a group of 40 pieces that traveled to 3 venues across the United States over an 11 month period from 2017 to 2018. It is also included in the print catalog of the exhibition. Photos from one of the exhibition venues are included. The last photo shows it in a room setting.

This vessel is woven copper wire, using the traditional basketry technique called twining. The natural copper wire will develop to a warm patina over time. This vessel is signed with my initials "SLS" and the year completed.

Overall size: 17 1/2" wide x 7" deep x 3 1/2" high