Return to Earth
 Artist's Statement

Walking the North American  continent I have sought out ground little affected by people. 
With this exhibition I wanted to create a record of these walks with works made up of gifts from the earth household.

Early in my career while in California, I was moved by Pomo gift and healing baskets, especially the work of Essie Parrish.
My containers are a reflection of that influence.  They are baskets intended to protect and shelter non-material things.
The 'Porcupine Basket' I see as a shelter for a wounded heart.

The wall pieces are all round and are meant to be viewed as mandalas and shields.
Each work represents one to four  days of meditative walking and gathering.

Paul Lapointe