Kari Lonning: Contemporary Art Baskets

In summer, everything feels lighter and more colorful. That may be why these handmade baskets by artist Kari Lønning immediately catch the eye. © Kari Lonning.

Lønning has been working with baskets since the 1970s, and her pieces are now treated as works of contemporary craft and art. Her work is held in important collections, including the White House Collection of American Crafts.

© Kari Lonning

After studying ceramics and weaving, she developed a strong sensitivity to form, color and interlacing techniques. Each basket is made with fine rattan reed that she dyes herself, building the color palette and tonal shifts she wants for each piece.

© Kari Lonning

More than simple containers, her baskets seem caught in a movement of color. Their forms draw on observations of nature, wild plants, buildings and architecture, while the surfaces combine different weaving techniques in the same work.

© Kari Lonning

The result is surprisingly vivid and beautiful.

© Kari Lonning

© Kari Lonning

© Kari Lonning

© Kari Lonning

© Kari Lonning

© Kari Lonning

© Kari Lonning

© Kari Lonning

© Kari Lonning