Kathleen A. Janke: From the Mountains to the Forest Floor
August 4-25, 2023
Kathleen A. Janke: From the Mountains to the Forest Floor
Opening reception: Friday, August 4, 5:00-9:00 PM
Gallery hours: Monday-Friday 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Tuesdays 6:00-9:00 PM; Saturday, August 26 (only), 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Artist Statement:
I create my art in multiple mediums concentrating on pine needle basketry and alcohol inks. The results are largely inspired by my close connection to the natural environment of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and my love of gardening and experience with landscape design.
While the vistas and flora of the park lend themselves to the utter spontaneity and brilliance of color with alcohol ink, pine needle/gourd basketry goes beyond the two-dimensional art form. The baskets become tangible three dimensional pieces of art using materials that the earth provides that I can wrap my hands around. Much of the material I grow or collect in a sustainable manner on walks. The baskets are inspired by touch, feel and a connection to the forest floor and river banks.
Baskets can be made in many different mediums, often following a pattern. They can become a functional piece of the working household; however, my baskets aren’t meant for muffins! When weaving by wrapping and coiling the Southern Long Leaf Pine Needles together and attaching them to a gourd, I start off with a plan or idea. As I’m weaving, the basket often begins to take on a life of its own, taking me down a path I haven’t traveled before. It becomes more than a sum of its parts. It evolves into an artistic journey for me.
On July 27, 2023, the Tennessee Arts Commission (TAC) announced Kathleen A. Janke as a recipient of the FY24 Individual Artist Fellowship in Craft. TAC awards Individual Artist Fellowships annually to recognize and acknowledge outstanding professional Tennessee artists who, through their work, add to the state’s cultural vitality.
Janke experimented with various art mediums for years before becoming serious in the fall of 2019. Within two years, she sold her bed and breakfast to become a full time artist. In 2022 she sold work in 14 shows, via her website, and by word of mouth. Three craft guilds contracted her to teach classes, and she is currently building an art gallery and studio, Gracehill Fine Art and Basketry, in Townsend. Janke is a member of Southern Highlands Craft Guild, Piedmont Guild, Tennessee Craft, Tennessee Artist Association, Foothills Crafts Guild, Art Guild of Tellico Village, Blount County Arts & Craft Guild, Townsend Art Guild, Oak Ridge Art Center, the Arts & Culture Alliance, American Gourd Society, Handweavers Guild of America, and National Basket Association. Full resume (PDF)