We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which the Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art stands and recognise the creative contribution First Australians make to the art and culture of this country.
Jenny Mye / Meriam Mir people / Australia 1934–2013 / Basket 2008 / Check-woven red polypropylene tape / 53 x 17 x 29cm / Purchased 2009. Queensland Art Gallery Foundation Grant / Collection: Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art / © Jenny Mye
Jenny MyeBasket 2008
Not Currently on Display
Jenny Mye (1934–2013) is known for her meticulous work and innovative approach to weaving. Mye grew up on Erub (Darnley Island) in the Torres Strait, where baskets, used for trade and for carrying personal items, as well as garden produce and fish, were traditionally made from coconut and pandanus leaves. Building on a South Sea Island check-weave pattern, Mye used plastic strapping tape to create distinctive baskets with complex surface decoration and surprising colour combinations.
She was a great mentor to young women, including her daughter-in-law, Charlotte Mye, who now weaves variations of these attractive, durable baskets using the multi-coloured tape. Recurring decorative themes include flowers, abstract patterns, drums and dharis (ceremonial headdresses), as well as the Torres Strait, Aboriginal and Australian flags.