Contact information:

Melanie Thompson
Saltspring Island, BC
Ph: 250-537-4695

www.islandartisans.ca
mdthompson@shaw.ca


 
 
 
 




Artist’s Statement

I took my first basket course in 1993 after moving to Salt Spring Island. Over the years I
have taken many basket courses from both local and internationally renowned teachers. I have exhibited my work in many shows in North America. 

A wide variety of materials are employed in the work. Materials such as willow, cedar, bark, and other plant materials. Foraging in the garden or on the roadsides and making something practical and sculptural is enormously pleasing. The materials are gifts from nature and I strive to create something that reflects their beauty. 

I have also been experimenting with other materials, such as kelp, wire, and sheet metal. Working with different techniques, shapes, and weaves is appealing. New meaning is given to these materials while their inherent qualities are not compromised.

Lamps are one of the items I make. Each lamp is distinct and unique. They are formed on a mesh frame and a wide variety of natural materials are woven with copper, brass, or stainless steel strips. Waxed linen, cane, or electrical wire are also used for weaving. All the bases are handmade either from coloured steel or wood. 

I have received awards for excellence in design and technique. My work can be found at
Artcraft, Salt Spring Island, June - September, December and Crafthouse, Granville Island, Vancouver.

Artist’s Works

Be
Wheat sheaf lamp and Green reed lamp 
Photo by Janet Dwyer.

Banner Image

Natural Beauty, 10"h x 6"w x 6"d, cedar, dyed cedar, copper, woven on a mesh frame on a handforged metal base. Photo by Janet Dwyer.

 

Copyright 2007 Craft Council of BC. All rights reserved.
This project was supported by Human Resources Development Canada and the Ministry of Advanced Education, Training and Technology, Province of British Columbia, through the Industrial Adjustment Service program.