About
A B O U T
Jenny set out to make a living from making functional objects from homegrown, indigenous materials. She aims to practice using the inherent nature of these materials to the best of her knowledge, ability and experience, continuing to be innovative whilst maintaining the heritage of this craft.
She is indebted to the basket maker and willow grower David Drew whose expert knowledge and understanding of the environment had a fundamental impact on her career choice and way of life. Funded by the Crafts Council Jenny took up an apprenticeship with David for one year. The experience extended her love of the outdoors and transformed her awareness of this ancient and cultural craft. It was a turning point in her life.
In 2018, Jenny and her daughter Issy joined forces to creative Willow with Roots,
a mother-daughter partnership with a shared passion for combining traditional basket making and willow growing with innovative and unique design. Together they have created spherical pods for the Chelsea Flower Show, lampshades for the Michelin star restaurant Pensons aswell as the Sandringham estate.
Quotes from Jenny's book Willow
"There are many many different ways of weaving a basket with willow. Worldwide there are as many variations of techniques as there are types of willow. Over the centuries different cultures have been incredibly ingenious in the ways in which they have interpreted this remarkable material to make their baskets."
"To master the use of willow you must first understand its characteristics and qualities. A perfect basket depends on the makers empathy with the material and tools, on repetition and experience combined with the intention in the makers mind."
"In the 21st century we are trying to reconnect with nature by choice, and not buy necessity. We have moved from wanting to keep nature out of our daily lives to seeking to include it."
"Our mechanised and digital lives have become so separated from our surroundings that some people seek a personal dialogue with nature and their environment in one way or another."
"Many of us aspire to question and to re-engage increasing our knowledge and understanding of our materials and craft."
