BY Marcella Echavarria | August 10, 2010

My new summer obsession

 
One of my obsessions this summer is this amazing basket I found on a recent trip to Swaziland.

Designed by Gone Rural’s Philippa Thorne and made by women from Lavumiza, a village located in the lowveld of Swaziland 5 hours from the main city, the basket is made from recycled plastic bottles-hand made into sequins, Lutindzi grass (indigenous to Swaziland), sisal fiber (sustainable harvest) and recycled fabrics from local textile factories. The basket takes an average of 5 days to make and many times entire generations of women participate in the process.
 
The inspiration for the pattern and colors of the basket comes from the memory held in water crystals. The materials and constructions is inspired by traditional techniques with mixed media and recycled elements.
 
Access to clean drinking water is a primary concern for the main three groups of weavers in this area as none have access at present. With many communities infected with HIV/AIDS it is vital that they drink clean water and eat fresh vegetables. 
 
The basket materializes this need and desire for the women of Lavumiza.
 
This piece along with a capsule collection of Gone Rural Baskets can be found at SURevolution’s store in Bridgehampton, 2462 Main Street, Bridgehampton, NY 11932. (631) 613-6565
 
http://www.goneruralswazi.com/
http://madeinswaziland.blogspot.com/