Lee Zieke Lee from Decorah, IA  is a naturalist artist who creates willow baskets.

Artist/naturalist Lee Zieke Lee has thrived working and connecting with the natural world. She and her husband ran a destination perennial flower nursery for 20 years and it wasn't surprising when she planted her first willow cuttings in the late 1980's. Now, many 'sticks' later, she continues to be smitten with willow and the process of creating beautiful, durable and functional vessels. Willow is the 'ultimate renewable resource' growing year after year following annual harvests.

Lee, of Willowglen Nursery, describes her work and process:

I have been fascinated with natural materials, particularly with willow, my whole life. I participate in the entire process - from planting, growing & harvesting my own willow patch to then sorting, soaking and selecting the best rods for my work. I am fascinated by the texture and patterns that can be achieved in this ancient art.