A Note from the Artist

Basketweaving and gourds have been an important element in my life for over a decade. I began weaving simple functional baskets. It wasn't long before I began exploring non-traditional approaches to weaving. Combining pottery and weaving came first and then I began exploring ways to combine weaving with gourds. My first efforts were pretty primitive but after getting into several major art shows and having my work well received, I developed the confidence to continue moving into unfamiliar areas. I enjoy combining weaving with other media and like to incorporate natural and found items into my work.

My partner Stu and I grow about 1 acre of gourds on our farm in rural Indiana. It is always fun to see what we can do with their unusual shapes to bring out the beauty and uniqueness of each gourd. The growing process is labor intense yet rewarding. Gourds are prone to all types of insect and fungal problems and they can grow at an unbelievable rate so we have to spend alot of time tending to the needs of the gourds. We specialize in large and unusual shapes.

We do about 10 art shows in the Midwest each year. It is very interesting to meet people from the different areas and to see their reactions to my work. One of the most common questions we hear is “What is this?” We always enjoy educating the public about gourds and their endless possibilities. It is also great to see the wonderful work done by other gourd artists.

In addition to art shows, I travel around the country to conventions, retreats and workshops teaching others how to create using gourds, pottery and weaving. Teaching others to expand their own imagination is very rewarding to me. Most classes that I teach provide the basic knowledge to inspire my students to pursue their own vision and my students love going home with a finished piece that they designed.