Artwork copyright Theresa Nason. Photo courtesy of the artist, 1985.

Artwork copyright Theresa Nason. Photo courtesy of the artist, 1985.

Basket, 1984

Theresa Nason
American Squaxin Island (born 1916, died 1996)

Location: Washington State Arts Commission, Olympia

About the Artwork

Squaxin basket weaver Theresa Nason made this basket by hand. The cattails used to create the structure of the basket were gathered by the artist locally in Shelton. Her daughter, Susan McFarlane, helped her in weaving the bottom rows of the basket. Nason's baskets feature depictions of many animals, including, butterflies, ducks, pelicans, and turtles.

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 Washington State Arts Commission.

About the Artist

Native American artist Theresa Nason (Squaxin, 1916-1996) was a master basketweaver and member of the Squaxin Island Tribe (based around Shelton, Western Washington).
If you can add to this information, please contact us at collections@arts.wa.gov.