Artwork copyright Ernestine Ballew. Photo courtesy of the artist, 1985.

Artwork copyright Ernestine Ballew. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission, 2021.

Artwork copyright Ernestine Ballew. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission, 2021.

Artwork copyright Ernestine Ballew. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission, 2021.

Clam Basket, 1984

Ernestine Ballew
American Lummi (born 1930)

Location: Pioneer Elementary School, Shelton

About the Artwork

Clam Basket was created by Lummi elder Ernestine Ballew (married name Gensaw) based on traditional basketry techniques. The design was inspired by a basket pattern created by the artist's mother-in-law. Baskets like this were historically used to harvest and sell clams. This artwork is part of Beyond Blue Mountains, a collection that was curated by late Tlingit (Native Alaskan) artist Jim Schoppert. It presents the work of Native American artists of diverse heritage, ideas, materials, and styles. The collection takes an in-depth look at the artists’ unique voices and interpretations of tradition.

This artwork was acquired for the State Art Collection in partnership with Pioneer School District.

About the Artist

Ernestine Ballew (Lummi) (married name Gensaw) is a tribal elder and master weaver. The Lummi Nation is of the Coast Salish group in Northwestern Washington State.