For anyone who loves the look of colorful patterns interlaced with bits of nature and appreciates beautiful, handcrafted items, hurry to The Green Phoenix Gallery to view the works of award-winning local fiber artist and basket weaver Heidi Wetzel.

From traditional woven baskets, to sculptured forms in fiber, to contemporary wall hangings, Heidi has developed a reputation for creating beautiful and unusual works that are superbly crafted. Reflecting the beauty she sees around the world, and in nature here on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, Heidi incorporates unique and indigenous materials, some which she brings back from her many travels.

“I like to mix textures and patterns, and often combine [traditional fibers] with bark, grasses, sisal, seagrass, yarn, ribbons, and anything else that lends itself to weaving. I especially like to use materials from nature – driftwood, bones, feathers, turtle shells, acorns, pinecones, and so many other things. The possibilities are unlimited.”

Heidi’s sculptures work well as colorful and decorative highlights for a wall or a table. Some are utilitarian while others are purely decorative. With her wall hangings, Heidi tries to create “pictures” or scenes from nature. Originally from Germany, Heidi came to the United States as a teenager. Now she lives and weaves at her home and studio in Easton.

Gallery owner Andi Tassencourt invites the public to The Green Phoenix on Friday, November 1, from 5 to 8 p.m., during Easton’s First Friday Gallery Walk. Meet and talk with Heidi and watch her demonstration. Enjoy some wine, finger foods, good company and conversation while viewing her new artworks. Heidi’s artworks will be on display and for sale through November.

Says Andi, “The inspiring qualities of Heidi’s creations are a wonderful complement to the international flavor of hand-crafted works by our Fair Trade artisans, in combination with our eclectic mix of fine, artisanal crafts by local artists, and oil paintings by Diane DuBois Mullaly. All come together to offer an environment with a full range of creative arts for the community to enjoy.”

And Frivolous Fibers Yarn Boutique, located inside The Green Phoenix Gallery, adds even more interest, featuring a new collection of its own line of gorgeous, hand-spun, and hand-dyed yarns.

The Green Phoenix Gallery is located at 31 North Harrison Street in downtown Easton. It is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call 410-822-7554.