“Inspiration for my work is rooted in nature, and the traditional lifestyles of the Pacific Northwest Coast.
“I apprenticed with master weaver, “Gram” Lillian Black Pullen of the Quileute and Muckleshoot tribes in Washington states Olympic Rainforest for thirteen years. The Southern Puget Sound also nurtured my Coast Salish apprenticeships with Lummi elder Lillian Rose Jefferson Lawrence, and other accomplished weavers.
“My main medium is red cedar bark, which has been used for thousands of years by NW Coast First Peoples. Considered sacred, it serves artistic, utilitarian, and ceremonial purposes and, according to legend has metaphysical properties. The bark is gathered and prepared using special and ancient techniques taught to me. Bark preparation and processing requires precision. The bark is priceless.
“In addition, I may use yellow cedar bark, wild grasses and sedges, other natural objects, and may apply a variety of dying techniques. While many pieces are composed of only natural materials, the spirit of the piece may call me to choose from an assortment of synthetic or unusual materials.
“While preserving the purity of ancient historical techniques, which includes the making of clothing, hats, rattles, bags, jewelry, mats, panels, abstract sculptures, and basketry, I look to creative unify traditional techniques with new perspectives. I am steeped in classical weaving methods and I seek the unfamiliar with my original sculptural techniques. I continue to uncover limitless possibilities in both my traditional and contemporary weavings.”
–Mary Snowden