The art and skill of weaving with twine has existed since the dawn of civilization and has been historically used to create baskets, shields, carriages and even roofs and entire homes. This amazing skill was a vital part of society and weavers were highly-regarded for their trade that it often took them years to master.
Weaving isn't a forgotten skill, and today it is often used in the developed world as a fantastic artistic medium. Anna & the Willow, is a British artist who has taken the art of weaving to a whole other. Anna creates fantastic contemporary art pieces that are now being admired around the world thanks to her social media presence.
Using English-grown rods of willow trees, she produces startling sculptures that really take your breath away and sit perfectly within the natural environment. Almost as if they developed organically from the land itself. Her large sculptures are first sketched out on paper, then steel frames that she has designed are constructed, the willow is then painstakingly wrapped around the frame producing the finished product.
One of her most impressive works is the 9-foot sculpture of a woman aiming a bow and arrow. Known as The Huntress of Skipton Castle Woods, it now proudly sits in the woods of Skipton Castle, a medieval castle in York, England. Since its installation, it has been a must-see site for visitors to the area.
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The artist began using the technique of weaving after taking a course 10 years ago, and much of her work has been on producing smaller woven items for purchase by individuals and businesses. These include beautiful ornamental plant holders and baskets. It is however her huge sculptures such as the huntress, the stag, and the horse, that garner the most attention online.
Anna told My Modern Met:
"Working with a natural material opened up a new world and I consequently went on to learn the different techniques of basketry. I enjoy using the traditional skills of basketry and adding my own flare to the process."
The work of Anna & the Willow clearly goes to show that some of the most ancient handicrafts and skills can really last the test-of-time and find themselves a new lease of life in the modern world.
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