I was originally taught traditional basketry by professional makers in England, Scotland, and Ireland. Twenty years later and I am continually fascinated by the variety of ways natural materials can be turned into three dimensional baskets. Whenever the opportunity arises I love adding to my skills by learning techniques from different cultures, or that are for different materials.
A few years ago I moved to East Sussex from the Isle of Arran in Scotland where I started my business. I enjoy being by the sea and the buzz of being in a more populated area. I am still based near the coast in Hastings with my studio near Rye in Iden.
About My Work
I have fun experimenting with all the different basketry skills I have acquired over the years; exploring combinations of weaves, using and putting together basketry techniques from different cultures in original ways, including ways of working that were originally developed for other materials, and sometimes even combining materials too.
The majority of my work uses willow. By growing and using willow I have been able to get to know the individual qualities of the different varieties. Each has a distinctive feel, texture, and way of working as well as colour. By blending techniques and materials I find new ways of making evolve and new designs emerge.
I am continually inspired by basketry and techniques from different cultures as well as the natural environment and the materials it provides.
Exhibitions
For a list of exhibitions past, present and upcoming please see the events page
Awards
2021 – Selected as a New Maker (TOAST)
2020 – Christiane Sand Study Bursary (Basketmakers’ Association)
2017 – Barbara Maynard Challenge Cup (Basketmakers’ Association)
Publicity
Sept 21 – The English Home Magazine had a feature about me. First Page here…..
…..and second page here….
April 2021 – TOAST Magazine had a feature on me when I became one of their New Makers https://www.toa.st/blogs/magazine/julie-gurr-new-makers
Some other press that featured my work when I was a Toast New Maker in 2021….
Other Activities
As well as doing my own making I have formed an enterprise called Marsh Willow with my partner James which concentrates more on willow growing, larger willow structures, and artists charcoal production from willow offcuts.
To keep up to date with my activities and news sign up to my mailing list. You can also follow my basketry activity on Facebook and Instagram.
