Maine sweet grass is also known as holy grass, vanilla grass, or Seneca grass. It is hand gathered by Native Americans in Maine, combed, sorted and dried in small bundles. This grass is used in tradition basketry as well as for ceremonial purposes. It is also bundled with sage leaves and cedar leaves and then smoldered in "smudging ceremonies" for the cleansing of the spirit. The grass releases a natural oil as it dries that gives off a sweet vanilla-like fragrance that will remain indefinitely in each sculptural basket.

I made my first basket over 20 years ago and realized my passion for building vessels. I journeyed through many different materials and techniques for several years, but found a huge challenge in the creation of coiled baskets. Once I mastered the traditional technique with pine needles and raffia, I was convinced that this was my niche. I began to search for a unique material and had the ambition to create a unique style. Circumstances fell in my favor, I secured a source in Maine for sweet grass and then began breaking all of the traditional rules that I had practiced. The result has been sculptural forms that continue to surprise and fascinate me.