Stephen Kostyshyn is a ceramic basketry artist. Steve completed his BFA at Adrian College in 1976. He then worked as a studio potter for 15 years. Today, he is finally able to create the mixed-media baskets you see here.
Steve was unhampered by the limitations he found with clay-only forms, texture, color, and shape. He created a form that combines many interesting materials to create very unique works of art. To create these form he uses fiber (reed), clay and wood.
The Process:
The challenge here is to have a clear vision of the completed basket before he starts. Steve uses traditional wheel-throwing and hand building techniques. He finishes the clay parts first. Then, he positions and glues the reed, dowel, or ash spokes in place. This stabilizes the form for weaving.
The final process is the weaving. He selects the natural or smoked reed weaving plaited and twilled patterns. He often chooses palm, vine rattan, or birch bark as accents to add a more natural feel and texture to his baskets.
Mastering this combined art-form has allowed Kostyshyn to explore shapes and textures that were unattainable to him in the past.
Steve has retired from making his ceramic baskets. However, he might have a few pieces remaining. Please contact him at stevekostyshyn@gmail.com.
