Mary Crabb

@crabbbaskets

Statement

It’s not easy to define who I am and what I do, as my practice is informed by years of exploring, experiences and curiosity. Throughout my childhood I was always making. However as soon as I made my first willow basket, I knew I had to make more. An introduction to textile basketry and the suggestion to try some different materials took my making in a new direction. I sit on the edge of basketry and textiles, drawing skills from both areas: adapting techniques, enquiring and experimenting. Much of my textile basketry work uses the technique of twining. Twining is very accessible; it doesn’t need a lot of space, expensive equipment, or even materials. You just need a lot of patience and time, as twining is slow. 

My practice has developed to incorporate more  textile techniques such as stitching and weaving alongside basketry. With a background in maths teaching and museum education, work is inspired by objects, stories of people and making, supported with research and investigation. There are connections to be drawn between ‘making sense’ of maths and creativity through the communication of techniques, ideas and solving the problems or challenges that both offer. 

In essence, my practice as a whole is about maths,  education and making. As part of my practice I tutor maths, exhibit, teach creative workshops and offer talks.