Woven Conversations by Annemarie O’Sullivan

Based in East Sussex, England, artist Annemarie O’Sullivan is a craftsperson first and foremost. With a deep knowledge of basketmaking, O’Sullivan employs techniques used for hundreds of years. Her functional and non-functional forms are a response to the traditions and surrounding landscape of rural England and beyond. Working primarily in willow, reed, and hazel wood, O’Sullivan cultivates and harvests all materials used, including about 20 varieties of willow, on a half-acre of land near her home and studio.

In Woven Conversations, her 2022 exhibition at MARCH, O’Sullivan explores the physical dialogue shared with her longtime basketmaking teacher, Mary Butcher (MBE) and cross-cultural conversations through the language of utilitarian basketry. A treasure trove of the finest basketmaking skills, the exhibition centers around the Irish word taisce (TASH-ka) meaning “treasure,” or “to store, to carefully keep a valuable item.” From large-scale sculptural drawings and lighting to oversized baskets and willow scoops, Woven Conversations is a rare first-hand look at O’Sullivan’s deep knowledge and intricate artistry.