SHEILA RANSOM/KANIESON

MOHAWK,WOLF Clan

“It was so difficult at the beginning. I didn't think I could do it. …Mae Bigtree, my Godmother, was my mentor…she whispered to me in Mohawk that I had received the gift from the Creator and that one day I would weave beautiful baskets.”

 

Ransom's bird’s beak style basket stands as testament to Bigtree's promise. Only the most highly accomplished artisans dare undertake this intricate and distinctive weave.

 

Recognized for her creativity and fine craftsmanship, Ransom was invited to demonstrate at the Smithsonian (Washington, DC) and one of her baskets was selected to be presented to Pope Benedict at the 2012 Canonization of Kateri Tekakwitha.

 

 

 

Bird’s Beak Fancy Basket, 2013

Black ash and sweet grass

 

NYSM E2013.65A-B