Carol Horvath

Inspired by the beauty of the natural world and friends, Carol is passionate about growing and making all things willow!  Originally drawn to the beautiful colors of wild willows, she soon recognized their manifold structural and visual capabilities in basketry, gardening supports and enhancements, live structures and sculptures.  She enjoys the challenge of perfecting both the craft of making traditional, functional willow work and the creation of new and innovative art.  Over the years 

Carol has learned from many wonderful basket weaving teachers from the US (CBBG & NW Basket Weavers), Canada and Europe.  She’s volunteered with Patrick Daugherty of Stickworks fame and participated in Frogwood collaborative art events.  She is honored to have two pieces in the art collection of philanthropist Jordan Schnitzer and regularly exhibits her work at the Art Elements Gallery in Newberg, Oregon.

For many years now Carol has spearheaded the collaborative effort of the Columbia Basin Guild (CBBG) to grow willow at the Our Table Cooperative farm in Sherwood, Oregon.  This group project now provides willow for both individuals and classes and teaches new weavers how to both grow and harvest European basketry willow.  When visiting the Our Table Cooperative farm you will see evidence of several farm/guild collaborative projects she has been involved with, including an outdoor patio decorated with lighted willow orbs, a live willow play structure for children and a live willow archway garden entrance.

Since moving to the Salem area a few years ago, Carol has been hosting willow and other basket weaving classes at her home studio, Willowbee farm.  There she enjoys both teaching and learning from others who do so.  She looks forward to meeting you soon!