Leon Niehues - The Craft Artist by Joe York

Leon Niehues taught himself basket making as a way to support his family’s back-to-the-land lifestyle in rural Northwestern Arkansas. His baskets are made from the young white oak trees that surround his home in the Ozarks. While using traditional splint techniques, he has added innovative ideas, new construction methods, and simple design elements that dramatically change his oak baskets into exciting contemporary pieces. American Craft Magazine wrote of Niehues’s baskets, “These containers deceive theviewer. They seem primitive and modern, functional and decorative, intricate and simple all at once.”

[@bernardwestphal326]

These works might be the most pleasing objects I've ever seen. They capture my soul.

[@bruceerdman8527]

I discovered Leon's baskets just a few years ago and I received my first one just 2 days ago. I love his work and I am very happy I found this video. Fine craft at it's best!

[@sethwarner2540]

Thank you, Leon. I can relate to your solitary craft. Your ideas catch hold of a whim, and pull it out to examine possibilities, and whip them into unexpected hilarious function!!

[@jbb5470]

Beautiful work and craftsmanship! True dedication to his craft!

[@GrizzlyGroundswell]

I like your systems

[@Zedoutdoors]

Beautiful work and great video ~Peace~

[@beowoofthemoviestar]

Great studio.

[@dakellymon]

Well done,