Mary Crabb

Mary Crabb is an award-winning contemporary basketmaker. Having originally worked in willow, Mary now works with fine flexible materials, both natural and man-made, to create small, detailed and decorative woven forms exploring the connection between basketry and textiles. Mary is a member of the Basketmakers' Association and Yeoman member of the Worshipful Company of Basketmakers.

Mary is also teaching short courses at the West Dean London Bloomsbury campus. (Please see the link in the Short Courses toolbar on the website)


Describe your approach to teaching:

I like to teach through demonstration, then support and encourage students as they work independently. I hope to inspire, to enable students to gain the knowledge and skills they need.


What inspires your work?

Inspiration comes from nature and the man-made environment. An interest in heritage, engineering and mathematical concepts influence my making. Line, structure and form are all important, as is the quality of my finished work.

Help preserve our future

We are part of a registered charity and rely on the support of generous donors, members and legacies to help us deliver world-class education in conservation, design and the creative arts and maintain our award-winning gardens.

Find out how to support us