Angela Cole of Yorkshire Willow Baskets, cunningly combines woven willow with woodland materials making traditional functional baskets, sculptural woodland inspired baskets and plant supports.
Cole is influenced by the coppicing cycle, by cultivated and foraged natural materials, and by the physical work of making. Her artistic, yet functional frames and baskets are made to be shapely, functional and strong, and the designs incorporate woodland materials to add organic textures and colours.
Spotted on instagram, Cole’s plant grow-throughs make for a beautiful natural alternative to traditional plant supports for floppy herbaceous plants. This particular set was commissioned for the contemporary, Mount St John Garden on the edge of the North York Moors, designed by Tom Stuart-Smith.
Cole has learned her incredible skill through experience, repetition, and dedication. She is currently studying for the City and Guilds Diploma in Basketry, learning advanced techniques, research methods and design skills.