“...using sweetly scented willow, Bech’s inspirational baskets epitomize the elemental simplicity of combining natural materials with exquisite craftsmanship. Showing subtle natural colors her baskets are beautiful & functional, beckoning us to get back in touch with the more elemental aspects of our daily lives”
Having lived among the Southern Uplands of Scotland for many years and drawn inspiration and solace from their embrace, I have moved to another undulating landscape which speaks volumes: The Paps of Fife. Living close to the earth through gardening, growing my own willows and caring deeply for the planet co-operation, collaboration and community continues to be the touchstones which inform my life and work as a basketmaker.
I approach my weaving sessions as a conversation on a playdate where the give-and-take between maker and material transforms a bundle of sticks into a tactile image of mutuality. Working exclusively with Scottish willows I aim to show the variety and beauty of different varieties and their forgiving nature, and to create lively, appealing sculptural forms which echo the landscape that surrounds me.
Having received a grant from the Scottish Arts Council in 2004 I developed a range of sensual asymmetric organic forms - marrying technical skill and a higher level of emotional expression - which have in time become iconic of my work. I have many teachers to thank for this, the most signigicant being Alison Fitzgerald, Colin Manthorpe and Klaus Seyfang.
