Haida Master Isabel Rorick Spruce Root Hand-Woven Basket Wild Strawberry Design

Description

Haida weaving, once an important part of everyday life, is an art still being passed on through the generations. Some of the finest historic weavings are from the Haida and displayed prominently in museums. Today, Haidas have revived the weavings for ceremonial use as well as sale. Weaving was traditionally practiced by women, although today there are a few men practicing this art. As with many Haida traditions, weaving suffered during the 1800's when populations plummeted due to disease. Luckily, a handful of women kept the art alive. Traditionally weaving materials included spruce root and red cedar bark. Thin, strong spruce roots are harvested from around the base of a young living tree. The roots must be stripped of the outer bark, then split several times before it can be stored for later use. The roots must also be cured for several months to improve flexibility. Spruce root can be woven tightly enough to make water-resistant baskets and hats. Like cedar bark there is a limited time in early summer and fall for harvesting. All of this preparation is reflected in the price of Haida basketry.
This particular basket is a masterwork by acclaimed Haida artist, Isabel Rorick. It measures 7" in diameter and stands 5.5" tall and has been created with the
Wild Strawberries
pattern. Not coincidentally, this style and size of basket was often used to gather berries in the forest because it is small, very durable, and supple.
Isabel Rorick belongs to the Raven clan, and was taught how to weave by her grandmother, Selena Peratrovich, back in the mid 1960s. Her mother, Primrose Adams, is also noted for her weaving. Isabel uses spruce root, natural grasses, and maiden hair fern to create woven hats and baskets. She is well-known for her impeccable spruce root hats. In 2001, Isabel was a finalist for the Saidye Bronfman Award for Excellence in the Crafts. In 2009, she won the British Columbia Creative Achievement Award for Aboriginal Art. Isabel has been included in many significant exhibitions, including Topographies at the Vancouver Art Gallery in 1996 and Native Visions at the Seattle Art Museum in 2002.
"Primrose Adams", "Isabel Rorick haida", "Haida spruce root", "Haida hat"