Eco artists create baskets with Sue Lenfest
The EcoArt class recently had the opportunity to work with visiting local artist and basketmaker Sue Lenfest in a hands-on basketry workshop. With many years of experience, including learning from Indigenous artists, she guided students through the process of traditional basketmaking.
Sue harvested black ash trees herself, prepared the splints used for weaving, and incorporated natural dyes to add color. Through this experience, students connected directly with the materials, techniques, and traditions of basketry, gaining a deeper understanding of the relationship between land, craft, and culture.
Black ash trees are central to Abenaki culture. Their unique growth rings allow logs to be pounded into usable strips that are strong, flexible, and long-lasting. For the Abenaki, ash trees are deeply connected to identity, place, and origin stories, and each basket reflects the story of its maker.
Students also learned about the emerald ash borer, an invasive beetle that is threatening ash tree populations. Scientists, Indigenous basketmakers, and local communities are working together to monitor and slow its spread, harvest affected trees, treat healthy ones, support Indigenous forest stewardship, and preserve seeds for future forests.