For dedication to traditional basket weaving with local co-op

WELLINGTON CENTER – Nov. 9, 2015 – Ann McRae McIsaac, a well-known traditional basket weaver who has been an inspiration to many aspiring weavers has been named the winner of the 2015 Co-op Order of Merit, presented by the Conseil de développement coopératif de l’Î.-P.-É.

Ernest Arsenault, a board member with the Basket Weavers of PEI Co-op, surprised McIsaac with the award on Members’ Day, Nov. 7 at the co-op’s store in Wellington Center.

He told members present that McIsaac was originally employed as a wood carver for the Culture Craft Co-operative from 1985 to 1987 and became manager from 1988 to 1989. She went fishing for a while but was unable to resist the urge to return. She is now skilled at Acadian and Mi’Kmaq basket weaving and ash splint basketry. She has shared her knowledge and passion with many people over the years, offering training, workshops and retreats, both on the Island and beyond.

From its humble beginnings in a mobile home, the Culture Crafts Co-op soon realized that there was an insatiable appetite for its unique product.

“While the demand kept growing, so did the vision of our dreamer, Ann. Ann is devoted and passionate about her art and has succeeded very highly in promoting this traditional art form,” said Arsenault. “She played a vital role in the total transformation of the Culture Crafts Co-op into the Basket Weavers of PEI Co-op, which developed the wonderful and very successful Island Traditions Store that we know and love today.”

“Without you Ann, none of us nor this store would be here today. Your determination and hard work has been an inspiration to us to always reach for our dreams,” noted Arsenault. “It is with great honour that we salute you, Ann, and present you with the 2015 Co-op Order of Merit for your outstanding devotion to the co-operative movement.”

-30-

 

CUTLINE: Ann McRae McIsaac, right, received the 2015 Co-op Order of Merit Nov. 7 from Ernest Arsenault, a board member with the Basket Weavers of PEI Co-op. Angèle Arsenault, president of the Conseil de développement coopératif de l’Î.-P.-É., was also on hand to congratulate the winner.

 

For more information:
Angèle Arsenault
President
Conseil de développement coopératif de l’Î.-P.-É.
(902) 854-2951
angelearsenault@hotmail.com