"The Basket Weavers" explores the comprehensive history of basket weaving, highlighting its evolution from functional necessity to a significant art form across various cultures. The book argues that basket weaving offers a unique perspective on the link between human culture, technology, and the environment. Interestingly, basket weaving predates pottery in many societies, demonstrating its early importance. The book also showcases how different cultures adapted readily available natural resources to suit their regional climates and needs.
The book begins by introducing fundamental techniques and materials, progressing to specific regional traditions like Native American coiling, East Asian bamboo weaving, and European willow work. Each regional study examines the environmental context, historical development, and cultural significance of basketry. By focusing on the social and economic roles of basket weavers, the book emphasizes how this craft has historically supported communities worldwide and continues to evolve as a contemporary art form.
