Everyone knows what a basket is: a container meant to carry things, often small, made of natural materials, usually with round contours and a handle. But many people are not aware of what contemporary artists are doing to completely redefine the medium of basketmaking. These artists utilize highly innovative forms and materials that push their medium into the realm of sculpture, while still retaining a firm grasp on the basket's traditional role as a functional object. This exhibition presented highlights from the holdings of Phoenix-area collectors Sara and David Lieberman, who have assembled one of the finest collections of contemporary baskets in the country. These baskets are made from traditional, natural materials as well as such surprising media as zippers, copper wire, and fish skin. The selection included both functional and sculptural forms, and ranged from contemporary interpretations of Native American basketry to more adventurous, avant-garde creations by both American and international artists. Intertwined was organized by the Arizona State University Art Museum, Herberger College of Fine Arts.

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