The expression of creativity in Great Basin Basketry

Class

Article

College

Caine College of the Arts

Faculty Mentor

Sandra Charlson

Presentation Type

Poster Presentation

Abstract

Thesis Statement: Basketry became a primary form of expression for Native Americans in the Great basin, and the patterns adorning their baskets have cultural significance. Native American artwork is very recognizable, and one of the most iconic works of art is the basketry of the Great Basin. Tightly coiled baskets that are woven with geometric patterns that awe and amaze. Much of the motifs that existed back then are still being used as inspiration in modern design today. An immense amount of work went into creating these baskets, and we can see the artists hand in these creations. Not only did these serve a number of purposes, such as containers for food, carrying water, baby cradles, fishing cages, and more, but they also became a huge medium for expression. In my proposal, I want to address this form of expression and answer these questions. Did the geometric patterns represent something in ancient native culture? Did they serve a ritualistic purpose or were strictly for decoration? Perhaps a skilled craftsperson was recognized for their outstanding work and design, and “trademarked” their own creations, much like greek pottery of old. How important was form and beauty, and did It ever take precedence over function? Understanding this form of art will require me to explore what life may have been like long ago for the native women that wove these baskets. Perhaps people that could create these masterpieces were held in higher social standing than those who could not create beautiful baskets for their family.

Location

The South Atrium

Start Date

4-12-2018 1:30 PM

End Date

4-12-2018 2:45 PM

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Apr 12th, 1:30 PM Apr 12th, 2:45 PM

The expression of creativity in Great Basin Basketry

The South Atrium

Thesis Statement: Basketry became a primary form of expression for Native Americans in the Great basin, and the patterns adorning their baskets have cultural significance. Native American artwork is very recognizable, and one of the most iconic works of art is the basketry of the Great Basin. Tightly coiled baskets that are woven with geometric patterns that awe and amaze. Much of the motifs that existed back then are still being used as inspiration in modern design today. An immense amount of work went into creating these baskets, and we can see the artists hand in these creations. Not only did these serve a number of purposes, such as containers for food, carrying water, baby cradles, fishing cages, and more, but they also became a huge medium for expression. In my proposal, I want to address this form of expression and answer these questions. Did the geometric patterns represent something in ancient native culture? Did they serve a ritualistic purpose or were strictly for decoration? Perhaps a skilled craftsperson was recognized for their outstanding work and design, and “trademarked” their own creations, much like greek pottery of old. How important was form and beauty, and did It ever take precedence over function? Understanding this form of art will require me to explore what life may have been like long ago for the native women that wove these baskets. Perhaps people that could create these masterpieces were held in higher social standing than those who could not create beautiful baskets for their family.