We invite basket makers, scholars, museum professionals, educators, environmentalists, art enthusiasts, and community members to join in conversations about this significant American craft tradition. Connecting to the exhibition Roots in the Rushes: African American Basketry of the Lowcountry on view at the Telfair Academy, this convening will offer panel discussions, workshops, tours, and engagement that explore the history, techniques, innovations, knowledge, and cultural relevance of this tradition in our region. By gathering, we aim to honor the ongoing vitality of basketmaking in the Lowcountry and inspire future generations.
This event is free and open to the public. Seating is first-come, first-served. Space is limited, and pre-registration is recommended.
Location: Jepson Center Auditorium
10:00am – Welcome and Opening Remarks
10:15am – Panel I: Threads of History, Memory, and Tradition
11:00am – BREAK
11:15am – Panel II: From Grass to Basket: Methods & Materials
12:00pm – BREAK FOR LUNCH
12:00pm–1:30pm – Workshop #1 (Location: Jepson Center Art Studio)
1:00pm – Panel III: Carrying the Legacy Forward
1:45pm – Closing Remarks
Program Resumes at the Telfair Academy
2:00pm–4:00pm – Book Signings and Meet & Greets (Location: Telfair Academy Rotunda Gallery)
2:00pm–3:30pm – Workshop #2 (Location: Telfair Academy Sculpture Gallery)
2:30pm – Curator-led tour of Roots in the Rushes: African American Basketry of the Lowcountry
4:00pm – Event Concludes