The artisans who make baskets and other similar pieces are dedicated to basket weaving. Fibers of plant origin are used for its weaving process, which depend on the diversity of botanical species in each territory. This activity has been defined on occasions from an idea: nature transformed into art.
The profession of basketmaker or basketmaker
In the manufacturing process, the basket maker has to previously obtain the necessary raw material, usually wicker, rush, cane, hay or cereal straw. In the next phase, the vegetable strips are created and then soaked in water so that they are softer when handling them when they are dry. With the same strips, an initial structure or base is assembled and then weaving begins, tying the different pieces in an interlocking way. It is an artisan process that is normally carried out manually.
There are several techniques, such as single weave, double weave, or three-pole staff. It should be noted that some baskets have built-in handles so that they can be grasped with the hands.
Basketry pieces are usually created in rural areas and are usually sold in tourist areas. Some indigenous peoples maintain this tradition as an essential part of their culture. Although it is a traditional profession on the way to extinction, there are people all over the world who want to rescue this type of profession so that they do not disappear.
As for their applications, they are very diverse: interior design, architecture, in gardening, for kitchen elements, etc.
From a historical perspective
The art of basketry is millenary and it is considered that in most cultures it predated pottery. As these are pieces that easily deteriorate with humidity, it is difficult to specify when this activity began, since in archaeological remains, basketry pieces are not usually found. However, some tests carried out have determined that it began approximately 10,000 years ago, when the human being abandoned nomadism and became sedentary.
Basket weaving is present in all latitudes and some indigenous peoples still continue with this tradition
In this sense, the Yanomami of Venezuela and Brazil make pieces with palm leaves to use in their daily lives or to sell them to tourists.
Nowadays, basketry has become a recreational activity, especially among those who are fond of crafts. Weaving techniques have a "therapeutic" component, since through them it is possible to relax and escape.
Photo: Fotolia - starman963
