Q: What are some
common misconceptions people have about being a Basket Maker?
Eric: That it’s easy, hence the phrase “I took underwater basket making for easy credits.” Mostly, when I’m asked what I do and I say I’m a basket maker, I get a confused look and that’s usually the end of the conversation. Until my wife jumps in and explains what I do, better than I can.
(editor’s note: If you know Eric, you know that self-marketing is not his strong point. He does not talk about himself! But he’s getting better since I told him it’s about his product! Not him. When I remind him of that, he shines since his craftsmanship is amazing and he knows it! Sounds like a good post for the future – how to talk about yourself as an artist and your work!)
I think people give little thought about baskets and just see the cheap imports in the stores. Not all baskets are equal, like not all furniture is equal. It takes a lot of time, concentration and skill. It’s far from easy. Do you know no one has figured out how to build a machine to make a basket? Every basket, even the cheap ones, are made by human hands.
(editor’s note: I did not know that basket making has never been automated before I met you. I cannot believe that some baskets are only pennies from cheapo stores. From someone who has only made about three baskets in her life, I can say that it is very difficult and time-consuming. That’s why I have only made three baskets… I like stuff easy and quick. Walk in my studio and you will see about 15 unfinished projects all going on at once.)
Q: What do you consider to be the best “perks” of your job?
Eric: Not having a boss is number one. My usual motto is “I like working for myself, but my boss is a real jerk.”
Q: I’m “publicly” thanking you for taking Chance to the vet yesterday. So how was it at the Vet’s office?
Eric: I almost moved this question to “what annoyed me the most this week.” What a racket these folks have going. “Hey pal, I’m only here to get a few shots so he can continue to go into boarding when needed. Can you try to let me get out of here under a couple hundred bucks?”
Our dog is as strong as an ox with more energy than Lance Armstrong after a blood transfusion and these guys had a list of over five hundred dollars worth of tests and meds they wanted to give him. They also figured out a way to split up the shots so that they can get you in there twice a year. No wonder we’re both “starving artists.”
(editor’s note: I think we should change that phrase to “Starving Artists with a Dog.”)
Q: What’s for dinner tonight?
Eric: Don’t know, whatever is in the fridge. Can you say “Who eats breakfast for dinner!” (Refer to the post here to see what Eric is referencing.)
Q: What annoyed you this week?
Eric: The New England Patriots is number one. Since we will be in Georgia staying with friends at the time of the Super Bowl, we were hoping for a dream matchup of the Pats and Falcons, but nooo! Now all we have to look forward to is the half time show, fried pickles, the commercials, beer, chicken wings and oh yeah, there’s a football game going on.
(editor’s note: Did I throw you off with the title “My boss is a jerk?” te hee. I bet you thought you were going to read a long rant. Nope. We are both our own bosses. But I’m sure we could fill a few posts with rants about each other!)
Images above from:
Basketry Degree Diploma Doctorate Certificate
Voodoo Boss Office Kit: Doll And Executive Spellbook
Fried Dill Pickle Mix, Gluten Free
