Woven: The Art of Contemporary Native Basketry
Preston Singletary
Tlingit
When I began working in glass I had no idea I’d be so connected to the material in the way that I am. It was only when I began to experiment with designs from my Tlingit cultural heritage that my work began to take on a new purpose and direction.
Over time, my skill with the material of glass and traditional form-line design has strengthened and evolved, allowing me to more fully own my relationship with both my culture and chosen medium. I’ve come to see that glass brings another dimension to indigenous art.
My work with glass transforms the notion that native artists are best when traditional materials are used. It has helped advocate on the behalf of all indigenous people, affirming that we are still here and that we are declaring who we are through art in connection to our culture.
My work continues to evolve and connect my personal cultural perspective to current modern art movements and I have been honored that my success has inspired other artists from underrepresented indigenous cultures to glass and other nontraditional materials in their work.
The Tlingit baskets in this exhibition represent contemporary glass versions of traditional woven spruce root baskets. The basket designs are inspired by and honor traditional Tlingit designs found on historic baskets.
Contact: (206) 545-0555 studio@prestonsingletary.com