Making history through art

What I want to share with you today is the gorgeous basketry of local artist Teresa Johnston. I first met Teresa at a gallery opening featuring her mothers work, and then again at the bead shop. I have been so fortunate to get to know her. She is a kind spirit and generous with her knowledge and creativity. Her artistic sensibilities are similar to mine and I feel very connected with her work. Teresa's baskets were recently featured in an exhibit at our library, The Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library. Up on white pedestals, each basket was its own complete natural sculpture. And, it was a pleasure to visit them every morning on my way in to work. Here are some photos of her work and her bio, that she graciously gave me permission to publish here.Prairie Basketry by Teresa Johnston Teresa Johnston started making baskets in the autumn of 1984 by chance. Prior to 1984, having done many different things; nothing would spark her imagination like the art of basketry. Teresa is continually inspired by the history of our country and its many basket-makers.Most recently, a shard of pottery was found and sparked her imagination as if she was making her first basket. Each basket made can tell a different story and it is her hopes that her baskets will tell you another story. When Teresa finishes a basket, she is still amazed. It is amazing because it is truly a one of a kind creation.Many of Teresa’s baskets have gone into private collections across the US. Her basketry has been placed as far away as Ireland, Russia, and Honduras. Teresa continues to be involved with her community by giving various baskets to nonprofit organizations to benefit them through auction.Teresa feels the hardest part of basketry is placing a value on making history through basketry. Teresa’s basketry should be viewed as a multicultural art. Born in Salina Kansas; Teresa feels she truly has made a personal connection to these Great Plains through the art of basketry. Member-Lawrence Art GuildMember-Artist Associate of Topeka Teresa’s basketry can be found at the following locations- In Sedan Kansas at the Art of the Prairie Gallery www.theredbuffalo.com/artgallery.html In Kansas City, Kansas at Buttonwood Art Space www.buttonwoodartspace.com In Topeka, Kansas at the Phoenix Gallery of Topeka www.phnxgallery.com/page/page/2004565.htm