Kari Lonning has been a full-time contemporary basketmaker since 1975. She is best known for her double-walled constructions and a complex weaving process she refers to as her “hairy technique.” She works extensively with graphic patterns, using both bold and subtle color schemes; choosing to dye the natural rattan reed with commercial, colorfast textile dyes for depth of color and longevity. Gardens, with all of their color variations and textures, are a major source of inspiration for her. Also, many of her vessel forms reflect her early training in ceramics.

Kari creates all the baskets herself, under the supervision of her Old English Sheepdog, Barneby, and her cat Dakotah. Her work is in numerous public and private collections including the White House Craft Collection, the Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian Institution, and the US Embassy in Bangkok, Thailand. Kari is also the author of “The Art of Basketry,” a comprehensive resource on design and construction techniques for traditional and nontraditional fiber vessels and sculpture.

When Kari isn’t working, she and Barneby are often in the garden or greenhouse. Visitors to her hometown of Ridgefield, CT, are encouraged to stop in at the Ironwood Gallery (203) 431-3388, to see her baskets. For more information about her baskets, book, or on commissioning custom work, please contact Kari at: kari@karilonning.com