Fox Spears

Much of my art practice since 2010 has focused on reinterpreting traditional Karuk basketry designs into monotype prints. I develop my compositions by pairing and layering geometric tribal patterns with organic shapes referencing landscape elements, like mountains or water. When approaching a new series, I look at historical baskets for inspiration. A traditional basket starts with the gathering and preparation of materials. It can take a year of collecting and processing before any weaving occurs. I think about the people who made them, the knowledge passed down from previous generations, and the time and effort that brought these baskets into existence. Each basket tells a unique story and is a memory from a way of life that has existed since immemorial. I envision each print, painting, drawing, or mural I make as its own story that will have its unique lifetime.