Ngai Chum: A Chin-dianapolis Basketmaker

Abstract

Basketmaker Ngai Chum moved to Indianapolis from Chin State in western Myanmar (Burma) in 2013. As a boy, Chum had learned to weave a variety of basket forms by watching his father make them. He continued to weave baskets for friends and family in Burma, where he also worked as a master carpenter. After moving to Indiana, he worked for two local businesses, but due to health and other issues, he took a break from working. Today, he devotes much of his time to making baskets for his community—which he enjoys greatly.

While living in Chin State Chum made baskets from locally sourced rattan. he produced pieces for both his family and personal use, but also to sell in larger cities. Finding a suitable material in Indiana, however, is difficult. He started weaving using plastic (polypropylene) packing straps to make his woven wares, which comes in a range of colors. He has since found an online source for dry rattan, which blends with the plastic straps. Today, he creates a variety of basket types, ranging from small storage containers to larger pack baskets. These carrying baskets are designed to be used with woven straps that traditionally wrap around the user’s forehead. He also makes a mid-sized basket that is commonly used for fishing in Burma, but here is used to carry everyday items as well as to display as a cultural object.

Chum stresses that making baskets is an enjoyable craft for him. Being able to weave for his community today gives him purpose in his later years, and reminds him of his youth when he made baskets for his village.