When you bring a handwoven basket from Dan Brockett into your home, you’re living with nature in one of its purest forms. That’s because Dan and his wife, Betsy, own Foggy Blossom Farm in Leechburg, where they grow more than 100 varieties of willow across roughly 6,000 plants. This means that every component of your new basket was planted, raised, harvested, and dried by Dan before it became a functional object. All those varieties offer a rich and deep color palate for him to work with when creating baskets.
Dan Brockett, a Basket Weaver with Busy Hands
Originally from Gibsonia, Dan didn’t start weaving baskets until he turned 40. His desire to fill the winter months with something to keep his hands busy led to a craft that has completely consumed his life. Not to mention, each of his seasons is intimately connected to the lifecycle of willow.
I’ve visited Foggy Blossom Farm and I can’t picture a more idyllic life for an artist. I imagine being greeted on a fall morning by fog. Only then to watch that burn off to see thousands of willow shoots glistening in the sun by mid-afternoon. That said, according to Dan the most beautiful time to visit their farm is in November!
What to Expect from Your Basket
Baskets are arguably one of the oldest functional objects that have withstood centuries. Dan’s attention to material and detail means that his work is built to last. No matter what type of basket you’re looking for he makes them. From handled potbellies to flower baskets to Catalan trays and even a laundry basket. We’re lucky to carry his work at Contemporary Craft. If you want to spend some time learning the process, Dan teaches locally and across the country.
Story by Rachel Saul Rearick / Photography by Jeff Swensen and Dave Bryce
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