Jane Wilson, Gourd Artist and Weaver 

My artistic journey has been shaped by a love for vibrant colors and a fascination with the multitude of techniques that can be applied to gourds. Drawing on my experience as an oil painter, woodcarver, and pyrographer, I have found that working with gourds allows me to blend these skills in exciting new ways. One technique that especially captivates me is coiling—a form of basket weaving. I often hand-dye the cord to complement each gourd’s unique design, weaving together elements of pyrography, painting, and basketry to create pieces that highlight the natural diversity found in gourds. 

Each gourd presents its own character, with variations in size, shape, and color, ensuring that every artwork is truly one-of-a-kind. The creative process is ever-evolving; I frequently reconsider and refine my approach several times before settling on a final design. My journey began in Kansas in 2007, sparked by witnessing another artist’s innovative use of color and wood-burning on gourds. With my background in woodcarving, I was immediately drawn to explore this versatile medium. 

Today, I am based in Portland, Oregon, where I exhibit my gourd art locally and share my techniques with aspiring artists through teaching. Recently, I was honored with the Best of Master Division award in weaving on gourds, a recognition that inspires me to continue exploring and celebrating the endless possibilities of this art form.