About kathy talley
Artist Statement
Always I have felt drawn to the beautiful hand- crafted baskets woven by Appalachian artists. Weaving gives me a creative outlet and even played a critical role in recovery during a difficult professional loss. When weaving, the materials let me know a direction and my hands feel that connection. I find weaving, rhythmic, therapeutic and meditative.
Basketry provides me the opportunity for unique expression. I love designing my inspirations with materials that can vary in color, texture, appearance and character. I draw my ideas from nature, materials, other artists and teachers. Attending conferences, meeting other weavers, listening to basket history and studying old- time basket makers fuels my enthusiasm for the craft.
When I weave a basket, especially when given to others, I put a part of me into the making. I think of the recipient as I weave or picture its usefulness and beauty. I put love, thought and caring into my weaving. The reward is the pleasure expressed by the person or the beauty and symmetry of the finished basket.
My goal is to preserve and enhance the art by increasing my skills and keep alive the connection with our Appalachian heritage.
Biography
I am a basket weaver with appreciation for the old Appalachian skills and traditions. I became interested in weaving when I went to Carbide camp at 8 years old and the first thing we did was to weave a lanyard using plastic strips. Ever since, I looked for opportunities to weave. When my friend and I wanted to go to the movies we would weave potholders on the little metal looms and peddle them around the neighborhood for .25. 2 sales was enough for a ticket and popcorn!
Later I found various teachers and took as many classes as I could. I joined the West Virginia Basket weavers Guild. A chance meeting at the Arts Day at the Legislature put me in touch with Carnegie Hall’s education director and I became a teacher there offering classes 4 times a year, teaching at the Kids College and for the home schooled children’s art experience.
In the past I was juried into Tamarack for my baskets sales. I was the featured artist at Carnegie Hall’s Homestead exhibit. I applied for and received a Profession artist grant to study with a master weaver ( Gail Hutchinson) to enhance my skills. I have taught fro Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts On The Road classes.
I want to preserve these important Appalachian skills and the artistry they can create.
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Other Creative Skills
Paper
Textile
