Join us on Saturday, October 18 at noon for a demonstration of several basketry techniques at the Branigan Cultural Center in conjunction with the exhibit A Renaissance of Fiber by the Mesilla Valley Weavers. The program is free and open to the public.
Several basket makers from the guild will be on hand in the galleries to speak with visitors and demonstrate a range of basketry techniques and styles representing some of the pieces on display in the gallery. The basket makers will be demonstrating both coiling and twining techniques, two of the oldest and most common methods of making baskets. Visitors can examine pieces at different stages of completion and will have the chance to try some of the basketry techniques under the tutelage of basketry experts.
A Renaissance of Fiber by the Mesilla Valley Weavers opens Friday, October 3 and features a diversity of fiber items created by members of this local weaving group. The exhibit demonstrates how weaving has changed over the last 400 years. This craft has gone from an everyday necessity to an art form, while still maintaining its place in our daily lives. Attendees will observe how the Mesilla Valley Weavers are keeping the weaving traditions of the past alive, yet creating innovative art. The exhibit will showcase contemporary weaving and will demonstrate how it harkens back to traditional weaving. There will be examples of items woven from reeds and textiles both woven and knitted. Baskets in traditional and non-traditional forms, ranging from functional to home décor items of all shapes and sizes, will also be on display.
The Branigan Cultural Center is located at 501 North Main Street. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 9am to 4:30pm and admission is free. The Branigan will be reopening after renovation for the First Friday Arts Ramble on September 5. For more information, contact the Branigan Cultural Center at (575) 541-2154 or visit the Center’s Facebook page or website at las-cruces.org/museums.
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