Ed Rossbach

Ed Rossbach was an imaginative and adept weaver, mastering ancient techniques and innovating with new and unorthodox materials, such as plastics and newspaper. He is considered by many to be the pre-eminent influence in the rise of basketry as a sculptural art form. In addition, Rossbach is known for incorporating unconventional imagery, including pop culture references, in his work. He taught painting and textile design at the University of Washington and the University of California, Berkeley, and wrote several books on fiber arts. His wife, Katherine Westphal, is also an important textile artist.

Education: B.A., University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, 1940; M.A., Columbia University, New York, New York; M.F.A., Cranbrook Academy of Art, Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, 1947