TAHLEQUAH — Standing more than eight feet tall and with a base of 45 inches, the world’s tallest Cherokee basket is now on display at the Cherokee Heritage Center. The basket was revealed during the opening of the Cherokee Baskets – History Woven in Art exhibition on Tuesday. The show runs through Aug. 19.

The distinctive Cherokee basket was woven over a four-month period by Cherokee National Treasure Rachel Dew and Donnay Leach of Tahlequah. Although both artists have been making baskets for more than 30 years combined, they only began making flat reed baskets this past year. Using an over two, under two weaving method, the artists constructed the Cherokee basket using commercial smoked reed and commercial dyes.

The basket is ringed with three distinct Cherokee cultural designs. The bottom design is called the “Double Chief’s Daughter,” the middle design is a combination of designs using the mountains, crosses and clover design, and the top design is the “bird’s eye view of lightning.”

“Baskets have always been an important part of our Cherokee culture. My ancestors were renowned for their basketry skills and I’m just doing my part to keep that part of the culture alive,” said Dew, when asked about Cherokee culture and the experience of making the basket.

“My ancestors were excellent in basketry skills and that inspired me to do the same. I am just trying to make them proud,” added Leach.

Following the exhibition, the world’s tallest Cherokee basket will remain on display indefinitely at the Cherokee Heritage Center for guest photo opportunities and art discussions.

“We are fortunate to have two highly talented Cherokee Nation artists that had the vision and experience to undertake this unique project,” said Karen Cooper, Interim Director at the Cherokee Heritage Center. “The record-setting Cherokee basket is a testament to their spirit and commitment to Cherokee culture. The basket will be a highlight of the exhibition.”

The Cherokee Baskets – History Woven in Art exhibition features the history of Cherokee basket weaving and features numerous baskets including one that survived the Trail of Tears, as well as baskets of contemporary design.

Cherokee Heritage Center admission is $8.50 per adult, $7.50 per senior (55 and older) and students with proper identification, and $5 per child.

Admission price covers all attractions including Adams Corner, Ancient Village, Trail of Tears exhibit and the Cherokee National Museum. Entry to the grounds and museum store are free.