In early 2014, KFP began working on a set of exhibit panels discussing Kentucky’s white oak basketmaking tradition. Funded by a recently awarded NEA ArtWorks grant, these free-standing, 3′ x 7′ retractable panels incorporate images of basketmakers, their work, and the life narratives of these artists to help contextualize this important local tradition for a wide audience. To enhance the project and provide an even greater understanding of this important regional tradition, we have written additional funding into the grant to bring basketmakers into each library location for hands-on demonstrations and discussion about their work.
These six panels are currently at the Hardin County Public Library, but will be moving on to the Butler County Public Library in Morgantown on April 9. Beth Hester of Basket Maker’s Catalog will join the library at 11 a.m. on May 13 for a lecture and workshop. Contact Kenna Martin, director of the Butler County Public Library, at kenna.martin@bcplky.org to sign up.
Kentucky Folklife Program 