Bonnie Gale
Bonnie Gale, a Traditional Willow Basketmaker for 38 years, is a traditional willow basketmaker, she is linked with the folk tradition of the immigrant German willow basketmaking community in Liverpool, New York, where she researches, interprets historical baskets and conducts basketmaking workshops to the community and
public.
Bonnie working with willow
I am specifically focused on the Liverpool, New York willow basketmaking community traditions. Through my traditional willow basketmaking, I hope to keep the traditions alive. I always have a mental image in my mind of the space to contain and the shape to create. My medium is willow. Functionality is the leading principle. The willow is very beautiful and hence, I create beautiful functional objects for the world to enjoy and appreciate. No machine has ever been invented to make a basket. Willow basketmaking is a hand to heart skill which is so important and vital to the reverence of willow casket making.”
New York Folklore Supported Activities:
- Exploring Willow Casket Making in Chenango and Schenectady Counties
- Other*