Woven by Design - Mindy Magyar

Mindy Magyar, associate professor, Industrial Design, College of Art and Design presents Woven by Design, a seating collection deeply rooted in the rich tradition of Mi’kmaw black ash basketry. This practice, a cornerstone of Mi’kmaw cultural heritage, faces an existential threat from the emerald ash borer—an invasive beetle from East Asia that has decimated ash tree populations across North America. The relentless spread of this pest has already claimed tens of millions of ash trees in the eastern United States and southeastern Canada, severely impacting the availability of black ash.

As the black ash supply dwindles, the continuity of basket making traditions across the Eastern Woodlands is at risk. In response to this crisis, Magyar's work explores alternative materials for weaving, seeking to honor the essence of Mi’kmaw artistry while adapting to the changing environmental landscape. Through this collection, Magyar aims to raise awareness of the ecological challenges we face and celebrate the resilience and innovation inherent in our cultural practices.