My work represents the transfiguration of the commonplace; the everyday event, situation, or story into something contemplative and meaningful on several levels. Like my other work, I use motifs, icons, and color symbolism that are interwoven into a layered and complex message. I invite the viewer to experience and enjoy each work on his or her own terms, whether my work serves as a catalyst for reflection or simply provides an opportunity for enjoyment of the construction, colors, shapes, and textures.
Currently I am exploring two directions in sculptural basketry:
My palette series utilizes the format of the historical American tobacco basket, a large square shallow hardwood basket which was used to display tobacco leaves to prospective customers. I use this format to illustrate the forces of nature, personal narratives, and the dilemmas of humankind. With a formal background in painting, I like to approach these works as ‘painting with reed’—translating the colors, design and process of painting into the basketry format. I use the random weave technique to create movement and often to illustrate chaos.
Man holding tobacco basket
My fish trap series is based upon indigenous fish, crab, eel, and lobster traps which were traditionally made of bamboo and rope. I incorporate the concepts of trapping, captivity, isolation, censorship and imprisonment to illustrate current human conditions and events. The incorporation of recycled objects and materials illustrates the extent of waste produced by humankind but also and more importantly, how recyclables may be used to create works that are playful and have personal meaning.
Fish trap
LYNNE DEES FIBER ARTIST
LynneDeesFiberArtist@gmail.com
Scott Hagar Photography
Elissa Von Letkemann Art & Design