Mount Pleasant Magazine May/June 2018

56 www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.ILoveMountPleasant.com | www.BestOfMP.com feature their knowledge onto him. His wife, the first to encourage him all those years ago, has a lineage deeply intertwined in the practice. With his spouse’s family members having their work featured in The Smithsonian, it’s fair to say Alston learned from the masters. “I do find the sweetgrass family to be a close-knit community of weavers,” said Alston. “I often call it a family because there are going be artisans in this industry that will always be respected no matter what the younger generation may do. The older artisans have truly paved the way for the next generation.” One place where you will see the works of weavers of various ages will be at this year’s Sweetgrass Cultural Arts Festival. Although plenty of long-established designs will be displayed, you never know just what other unique findings could surface. Alston encouraged all to come out to this annual celebration that provides insight into our region’s Gullah culture and an in-depth look at an art form that continues to evolve. From the awe-inspiring hymns of soulful gospel choirs to live weaving demonstrations, this event is sure to offer something for everyone. “You will find great food, music, other crafters, my company – Gullah Woven Photos – the history of the Gullah Geechee Culture and so much more,” said Alston. Now in its 13th year, The Sweetgrass Cultural Arts Festival continues to serve as a platform for showcasing creators. From storytellers who keep the tradition of folklore alive to musicians who provide sweet ancestral songs, each participant adds to the day’s dynamic. “It has been my great pleasure to be chosen as the weaver for the 2018 Sweetgrass Culture Arts Festival,” said Alston. “I have proudly woven one of my most detailed pieces for the brochure cover. This particular sweetgrass basket, I feel, represents the culture of basket weavers well. ‘Teardrop’ took me 32 days to complete from start to finish and is the product of collaborating different styles of baskets all into one.” While Alston has artfully crafted a never- ending stream of baskets over the years, he puts the same amount of care and consideration into every piece – making sure each is just as eye-catching as the last. “The most rewarding aspect of being a part of the Lowcountry’s artistic makeup is being able to share my gift with others,” said Alston. “I have enjoyed the craft, perfecting my skills and love that I’ve had the opportunity to teach people about an aspect of our proud Gullah Geechee culture.”