Willow sculpture and basket maker inspired by the coastal backwaters of Essex.
The ancient craft of willow work has been given a modern twist and brought to life by artist and maker Beverley Jenkins, who draws inspiration from the beautiful North Essex coastline and countryside.
Beverley manipulates willow rods to create animals and birds, baskets, birdfeeders, plant supports and living willow designs for the arty home and garden.
Here you will find a gallery of willow creations, art available for sale, a regularly updated blog, news on upcoming exhibitions & events and contact information.
Please take the time to look around and feel free to get in touch if you have any questions!
Instagram Feed
The best way to keep in touch with me is on Instagram, where you will find photos of my work, my workshop, events and other bits and pieces from my life on the Essex coast. You can find my full account here, and there are a few of my recent posts below.
To cruel, hard hands,
The willow will not yield.
To force it is to break it.
It must be lead, gently,
To obey its own nature,
To achieve its own destiny.
Then will emerge a shape with purpose.
Form will mirror function
And the basket will be content.
Fulfilled in its own existence.
Unique.
As with the soul of a child.
Michael Morris | Poet
The ancient craft of willow work…
Willow weaving is a traditional art that has been practiced for centuries. The art involves the use of flexible twigs and branches of willow to create numerous objects such as baskets, sculptures, and furniture. The art of willow weaving is widely spread across the world, and each region has its own unique style of this craft.
One of the most common forms of willow weaving is basketry. Basket weaving involves the creation of various sizes and shapes of baskets, used for storing food, holding goods, or as decorations. Basket weaving is a skill that requires patience and attention to detail. The weaving process involves interlacing flexible willow twigs and branches to create the desired form. The interlocking process ensures that the basket is sturdy and strong to carry various items.
In addition to basketry, willow weaving is also used to create sculptures. Sculptures made from willow are typically used for decoration purposes in gardens and other outdoor spaces. The art form requires creativity, imagination, and excellent craftsmanship. The artist first creates a framework with willow branches, and then weaves flexible twigs and stems to create intricate designs and shapes.
Willow sculpture is often associated with creating animal figures such as deer, birds, and rabbits. These sculptures are popular because of the flexibility of willow, which allows the artist to create curved and twisted shapes effortlessly. Sculptures made from willow are often coated in a protective varnish to protect them from external elements such as rain and UV light.
Willow weaving is not only a great way to create art but also to promote the importance of environmental conservation. The plant's fast growth and ability to thrive in most environments make it an eco-friendly material, making willow weaving a sustainable art.
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