Lizzie Farey–Basketmaker Extraordinaire

Yes, I was in the UK the first half of August and this is now the end of November, but I really want to introduce you to Lizzie Farey of Kirkcudbright, Scotland, who was our first and my favorite artist studio visit. Back in the early 80’s I made several baskets and enjoyed the process, but I didn’t continue. One has to narrow the art focus down! While I made baskets that held things, such as egg baskets, Lizzie creates art. She works intuitively, building her work as it comes to her. The complete antithesis of the way I work. I’m a little jealous.

I love the piece she is standing in front of. But then there weren’t any pieces I didn’t think were wonderful. Notice all of the materials on the floor. She gathers them herself in the nearby environs.

She demonstrated to us how she begins a piece.

Her wonderful work.

Notice the small bumps. These are the ties Lizzie uses to secure the branches within the design.

Lizzie told us she wasn’t completely satisfied with this piece. It’s one of the simpler we saw.

My personal favorite of all the artwork in the studio. This elegant piece feels ethereal, as if you can feel the wind blowing.

Here’s a write-up if you’re interested in learning more.