Master basket maker, Jo Ann Hart, grew up in the Appalachian Mountains of Kentucky, near Berea. She became involved in mountain crafts at a young age through the teachings of her maternal grandmother who was a non-registered Cherokee, and her paternal grandmother who was involved in Applachian crafts.
Jo has studied with several Native American master basket weavers from the Pacific Northwest plus local basket artists. She has also received instruction from a noted Applachian basket maker who excels in Applachian white oak baskets. Jo Ann has had work displayed in the Kitsap Count Indian Museum, local libraries, local and state fairs, and in Washington galleries. She has taught basketry in Oregon and Washington.
She and her husband, George, run Wilderness Basketry where they and other local artists teach a variety of classes. They also take consignments. She and George gather and prepare their own natural materials.
Jo Ann is a registered psychiatric nurse. She is a member of the Kitsap County Mycological Club, and Kitsap Archers. Her other interests include oil painting, making twig furniture, leather crafts, making traditional basketry tools, crocheting and gardening. Harvesting and preparing materials and making baskets are the most CHERISHED.
Here is some of Jo Ann's work.
You can email Jo Ann at georgehart@msn.com