Basket 2003 Terrol Johnson, Tohono O’odham (Tucson, Arizona) Cast-bronze gourd with bundle-coiled bear grass 26/2578 As I have traveled to museums, art shows, and galleries across the country, I have been inspired by other Native and non-Native artists. My environment is filled with both traditional media and new media. This piece represents an evolution in my own work. Years ago, I started by weaving traditional baskets. A few years ago, I decided to apply traditional techniques in new ways by weaving on top of gourds. This piece takes that contemporary approach a step further. I cast a large gourd in bronze, worked to get a nice patina, then wove using traditional basketry materials on top of the bronze. It reflects my connection to tradition as well as the diversity of contemporary life. This piece walks in two worlds, just as many Native people do.