In the northeastern US and southeastern Canada lie pockets of cool, wet ground. Here one discovers black ash trees, unique in their ability to separate along annual layers. For thousands of years, black ash trees have inspired Native American basket makers to weave objects for sustenance and beauty.
At one time, baskets were indispensable in any culture, and for this reason, basket making is perhaps one of the oldest crafts. This could be why baskets seem to soothe the chaos of our daily lives in the contemporary climate, leaving with us an ‘archetypal imprint’ of simplicity even though we are no longer dependent on them.
Jonathon Kline’s black ash baskets summon the magic of the black ash tree and it’s history. On February 7, Luminaire proudly displayed his work in an exhibition that debuted with a reception in the Chicago third-floor showroom. Jonathan Kline’s black ash baskets are handmade, by him, creating a one-of-a-kind masterpiece with every new weave.
Characterized by its graceful lines and excellent proportions, the baskets are consistent with Luminaire’s philosophy of good design. Guests deliberated over the baskets, smiling and conversing with one another as they enjoyed the simple, subtle forms and imagined the many uses of the baskets when integrated into their everyday lives.
Friday, February 1, 2002
