More About Gina
Gina began weaving baskets at the local Community Education when her youngest son was a year old – that was over twenty five years ago. Choosing to be a stay at home mom when her children were young, basket weaving became an outlet for her artistic side. At this time she has over 150 patterns written, has had works published in two basket magazines and has won several awards in exhibit rooms at many different basket conventions. Her baskets have been sold and displayed not only locally, but all over the world.
Living in rural Rothbury, Michigan, nature plays a large part in her basket designs. Nuts, seeds, pods, grasses and bark make great embellishments. She enjoys the challenge that new materials present to make a truly unique basket. Trying new mediums, new colors and new techniques is something she loves; however twill is her favorite.
Gina enjoys teaching at her local Art’s Council and Council on Aging as well as scouts, private groups and in her home studio. You will see her teaching at many of the state conventions, basket guilds and retreats. Having the opportunity to teach her love of basketry at different venues in the Mid-west, East Coast and Southern States is something she is grateful for. Teaching is her forte' - with patience being her greatest strength. She has been teaching basket weaving classes since 1998. Passing on the love of the art of weaving and seeing the satisfaction of a student after they have completed their project is the greatest feeling. After leaving one of her classes, you have a great basket along with an excellent experience.
Gina is also now a “colorful girl” selling dyed reed all over the country as well as Canada and parts of Europe. You will find her quality dyed reed on her web site – http://www.ginasbaskets.com.
~ Gina Kieft.