Morley Maier

Morley lives and farms near Yorkton, Saskatchewan. The baskets he makes are Ribbed or Frame Baskets. The construction techniques are simple and the materials are readily available. Indigenous people and European settlers used this very old style of basketry to
create strong and functional baskets. This historical and cultural connection is important to Morley and is intentionally reflected in the baskets that he makes.

Morley’s work has twice been selected to be part of “Dimensions”, the Saskatchewan Craft Council’s touring Fine Craft Exhibition. He has also received two SCC awards; the Merit Award and the Award for Excellence in Functional and Production Ware.

ARTIST STATEMENT

My preference is to make baskets that can be used as they were first intended; as containers to carry or store things. While some of the baskets I make might be considered decorative, most are “working” baskets that most people will actually use. I hope that the baskets I make reflect and respect the history and traditions of willow basketry in our province. Most people would agree that there is a rustic natural quality to willow baskets that they find instinctively warm and appealing. I try not to do things with my baskets that would interfere with that.