Grapevine Basket

The body of this round woven basket is made almost entirely of grapevines, giving the piece a rough, textured feel. The vines vary in hue from warm, reddish hues to darker, wooden browns. The handle is constructed from two twigs, and wood splints connect the handle to the body.

Grapevines are one of artist Ira Blount’s favorite materials as they make baskets look “very natural.” In a 1998 interview, he said, “when you’re making a basket using grapevines – the grapevines tell you which way you’re going. So, the shape is dictated by the vines…you might be able to manipulate them slightly, but you usually give into whatever shape the vine is.”

After moving to Washington, DC following World War II, Ira Blount mastered dozens of artisanal crafts. His love for crafting, learning, and community engagement would endure over the course of his long life and career.