Shannon Lucas Westrum
Basketweaver
Bemidji, MN, USA
Woven connections
- Shannon creates abstract woven baskets using traditional methods
- Her rattan works incorporate foraged and found objects
- She teaches and advocates for access to fine art education
When Shannon Lucas Westrum is not working from her basket weaving studio in the woods of Minnesota, she can often be found travelling across the USA, teaching her craft. “People are coming back around to wanting to do things with their hands,” she says, speaking of her workshop experiences. Shannon also finds that people are seeking connection, and by sharing her knowledge, she encourages conversations while preserving time honoured weaving practices. Named a McKnight Fiber Artist Fellow in 2025, she is recognised for her masterful techniques and contemporary expression through innovative, organic forms and unique materials.
INTERVIEW
I am always searching for my place in the environment. For me, basket weaving is a way of growing community, too. Many of my materials are things people drop off on my doorstep. I find ways to tell stories in basketry about who we are, where we are going and what our communities look like.
I used a regional arts grant to study in Ireland with master basket weaver Joe Hogan, from who I learned so much. For instance, traditional basketry is less about hiding ends and pieces and more about form and function.
Traditions across cultures are similar, yet remarkably distinct. Different people pass down different details, patterns and colours. To me, that is humanity in itself. Watching people drift away from tradition made me want to grow and continue my practice.
I keep a pile of the ones that are most intriguing to me on my worktable. I do not draw or sketch, but I do have a solid idea of what a piece is going to look like. Much of my work is a culmination of years of collecting pieces and waiting until they all click.
Shannon Lucas Westrum
Basketweaver
Bemidji, MN, USA
AVAILABILITY
By appointment only
PHONE
+1 2185565907
LANGUAGES
English
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