Misti Washington was a highly respected, nationally known, basket maker, artist, craftswoman, teacher and author who lived and worked in Solana Beach, California.
Misti generated enthusiasm and inspiration, and fostered the development of countless basket makers until her death in 1997. Our guild is named to honor her life and memory. Click Here to learn more about Misti’s interesting life story.
Misti once said, ''The most important thing that has become apparent to me lately is how many wonderful people there are involved in basketry, teaching basketry and writing basketry. Every time I get a chance to go to a conference or a talk, or read a book about basketry, I am transported deeper into the desire to spread the word further."
Members represent all levels of interest in basket and gourd making -- beginners, professionals, hobbyists and collectors. We all share a common fascination for handmade vessels and sculptural objects -- whether ornamental or utilitarian -- and for the natural fibers and manufactured materials used in their construction.
Our goal is to preserve, promote and perpetuate the appreciation of gourd and basket art by providing a supportive, sharing and educational environment.
We typically hold demos and mini-workshops at our regular meetings and offer special one or two-day classes with nationally known artists.
Misti Washington Gourd & Basket Guild meetings are held on the first Sunday of the month, from 12:00pm to no later than 3:00pm to discuss upcoming events and activities, eat, show and share, and work on projects, participate in mini-workshops or lectures following the business meeting and potluck (bring a dish to share and your own beverage; electricity available, but no kitchen facilities). Members are welcome to come at 11:00am to learn more details about Guild business at the monthly Board meetings.
Beginning August 2021, the Guild meets at the San Dieguito Heritage Museum at Heritage Ranch, 450 Quail Gardens Dr., Encinitas, CA, 92024 (next door to the San Diego Botanic Garden; turn onto Ecke Ranch Road to access driveway). Occasionally, meetings that fall on holiday weekends may occur via ZOOM. Members will be sent login information for these gatherings. Check the Events Calendar page to find the latest information about upcoming meetings.
For over two decades the Guild met at the San Diego Botanic Garden, and 2016 marked the 20th anniversary of the founding of the Guild and the first Gourd and Basket Weekend in the Gardens. At that event, we honored Misti where many people were able to tell her how much they appreciated her, her teaching, and the creative stimulation and encouragement she had given them. We had carried on the tradition through a biennial conference at the San Diego Botanic Garden where teachers from across the nation share their expertise in traditional and modern basketry and gourd art techniques. However, in 2020 we began researching other possibilities. Check our Classes page for updates on future special class opportunities.
