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Columbia Basin Basketry Guild

7688 Southwest Capitol Highway
Portland, OR, 97219
Phone Number
Preserving, promoting, and teaching the art of basketry

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Columbia Basin Basketry Guild

  • Who We Are
  • What We Do
  • Event Calendar
  • Join or Renew
  • Contact
  • Donate
  • Shop
Wavy twined basket

Sue Gemmell

After majoring in visual art and art history, my first career was graphic design, then map design, websites, and user experience. After earning a masters degree in information management, I organized archives and digital communities for global aid organizations.  

I remember the pleasure of twining tule reed at the Oregon Country Fair’s Archaeology Site in the 90s, but it wasn’t until the 2020s that I started taking basketry classes and workshops, and attending regional retreats. I still feel like a newbie, and am inspired by - and in awe of - the work of Guild members.

I’m exploring all styles of weaving, including vessels and sculptures, contemplating how to merge natural materials, and create a variety of forms and structures. I’m drawn to irregular, unusual, organic shapes, letting the material inform me as I work. Sometimes hours go by unnoticed. 

I see parallels between my education, careers, and weaving. I seek out patterns, identify what to emphasize, and create a bit of structure from chaos, with input from the environment, material, style, and user needs.

Sue Gemmell

After majoring in visual art and art history, my first career was graphic design, then map design, websites, and user experience. After earning a masters degree in information management, I organized archives and digital communities for global aid organizations.  

I remember the pleasure of twining tule reed at the Oregon Country Fair’s Archaeology Site in the 90s, but it wasn’t until the 2020s that I started taking basketry classes and workshops, and attending regional retreats. I still feel like a newbie, and am inspired by - and in awe of - the work of Guild members.

I’m exploring all styles of weaving, including vessels and sculptures, contemplating how to merge natural materials, and create a variety of forms and structures. I’m drawn to irregular, unusual, organic shapes, letting the material inform me as I work. Sometimes hours go by unnoticed. 

I see parallels between my education, careers, and weaving. I seek out patterns, identify what to emphasize, and create a bit of structure from chaos, with input from the environment, material, style, and user needs.

Wavy twined basket

Wavy twined basket

Prototype of Things to Come - Sarita Westrop class.

Prototype of Things to Come - Sarita Westrop class.

Daylily and iris

Daylily and iris

Many Mandibles

Many Mandibles

Neolithic weave - inspired by Megan Primo.

Neolithic weave - inspired by Megan Primo.

Reveal - vinca vine.

Reveal - vinca vine.

Sampler Basket

Sampler Basket

Tension Tray - Ben Goodwin class.

Tension Tray - Ben Goodwin class.

Willow bark wall basket - Judy Zugish class.

Willow bark wall basket - Judy Zugish class.

Wire X basket - Polly Sutton class.

Wire X basket - Polly Sutton class.

House for a Shell

House for a Shell

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Membership is open to basketry lovers of all skill levels. Join the Guild today!

Columbia Basin Basketry Guild
Multnomah Arts Center
7688 SW Capitol Highway
Portland, OR 97219

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