Return to Earth: Spirit and Memory
An exhibition curated by Carol Blank

Rene David Chamizo

	Sketch II, reed. 1.5' x 8" (top); Sketch I, reed, 1.5' x 12" (bottom)

As a basket weaver living and working in New York City, my work with natural reeds from many parts of the world puts me in touch with our ancient forebears, who, working in harmony with nature, used this plentiful growing material to meet their domestic needs. Living in a world whose physical needs are often met by synthetic manufactured goods, the functional importance of woven baskets made from natural materials has diminished, and my baskets and sculptural pieces therefore have come to express my personal concerns rather than a functional need. They reflect my emotions, my spiritual yearnings, and my relationships and struggles to live a humanistic life in this "urban jungle."

I find that creating with natural fiber has put me in touch with my spiritual ancestors and brought me back to earth.

Oya , reed, 6' x 3' x 1'