NWDC Member Artist Talk | David Chambers: Baskets + Engineering = Satisfaction
Sunday, January 12, 3 to 4:15 pm
Presented on ZOOM
“For my presentation I will talk about my work, what inspires me, the challenges I’ve enjoyed, and I’ll probably ask a few questions.
Over 20 years ago I was looking for an artistic outlet to balance my highly technical job as an aerospace engineer. I stumbled across basketry and was hooked after my first basket. With basketry I can use my problem-solving skills to create something by hand - a satisfaction I couldn’t get from my desk job.
Traditional basketry is wonderful, but I prefer to explore unconventional materials and unconventional ideas. My process is to dream up an unusual basket design, then challenge myself to make it come true.
My approach to basketry is not typical. I plan and work for months, sometimes years, before I’m ready to start weaving. The goal is always the same, to create something unique, pleasing and entertaining.”
Fifty Shades of Steel: 8”x 8”x 8”, 2018, Steel washers and cable, leather, sink drain, Photo by Paul deRoos
Promise Bowl: 7”x7”x 9”, 2010, Pine needles, waxed linen and glass beads, Photo by Ken Rowe
NWDC’s Mission is to educate the public about Craft. It is also our intention for members to know each other – to have community. Our Zoom Artist Talks address both of these purposes. The Zoom talks grew out of a tradition from in-person meetings where members presented their life story and their work. It was a way to share with each other and to get to know each other in depth. A strong Crafts community is essential to promoting Craft in our wider culture.
When the talks moved to Zoom during the pandemic, we immediately saw a new advantage: far-away members could participate in real-time, the public could tune in, and we could make a permanent record of the talks on YouTube.
The support team for the Zoom talks include Executive Director Daniel Wallace, President Nancy Loorem Adams, Katherine Lewis, Lois Harbaugh, and Denise Snyder.