Arizona art collectors Sara and David Lieberman have amassed one of the most extensive collections of contemporary baskets in the country.

The couple began assembling their collection 40 years ago, first choosing pieces for their function, appeal and ancient traditional roots.

Over time, however, their selections began to include new and exciting works that were more about expression and communication, rather than utility.

This winter the Liebermans share the best of their collection at Bellevue Arts Museum. The exhibit, “Intertwined: Contemporary Baskets from the Sara and David Lieberman Collection,” features over 70 works by regional, national and international artists who have manipulated a range of materials and techniques to create intriguing objects that push the boundaries of basket-making.

The result is a fascinating and colorful display of both traditional and functional pieces, along with mixed-media sculptures, which help to illustrate the depth and breadth of this unique art form.

“Intertwined is a visual feast,” says Heather S. Lineberry, co-curator of the show. “The exhibition and its accompanying catalog…provide an international look at contemporary basket-making and its current level of innovation and experimentation.”

Featured artists include some of the major figures in contemporary basket making: Ed Rossbach, Katherine Westphal, Sally Black, Kiyomi Iwata, Kazuaki Honma, Dorothy Gill Barnes, Carol Eckert, John McQueen, Ferne Jacobs, Norma Minkowitz and many more.

Among them are several from the Northwest: Lanny Bergner (Bellingham), Jill Nordfors Clark (Tacoma), Jan Hopkins (Everett), Charissa Brock (Portland) and Lisa Telford (Everett).

The exhibit gives visitors an entirely different view of baskets that extends beyond simple containers and carryalls. Made with materials such as grasses, fish skins, reclaimed zippers, porcupine quills, grocery bags, postcards and pistachio shells, these original works redefine the medium, marrying ancient practices with contemporary creativity.

Artist Fern Jacobs, for example, spins her magic with waxed linen thread to create “Tides,” a poetic piece resembling the waves of the ocean.

Fran Reed uses silver salmon skin, gut, driftwood and cane for her Native American themed basket, “Kuskokwim.”

And Carol Stein decorates rice paper with faces from around the world, assembling a multi-sided, lantern shaped montage that is anchored with seagrass.  Other unique pieces include Jan Hopkins’ “Eye of the Beholder,” an eye-catching sculpture made of grapefruit peel and lotus pod tops, and Norma Minkowitz’s “Sisters,” a mixed media creation that enhances in detail as you step further away from it.

Viewers will be amazed at the intricacy of the works on display, as well as the sensory qualities inherent in each piece. And they will come away with a newfound appreciation and broadened perspective of this masterful art form.