Janie Paulin holds up one of her favorite baskets she has made and keeps in her collection at home. While this basket is fairly traditional, Paulin also enjoys using unique elements such as antlers and gourds to create new and interesting pieces. (Daily Press photo by Laura Mead)

ESCANABA — Janie Paulin, Escanaba, a local basket weaving maven and champion of the arts, is helping to keep the art community alive and growing. Today, 61-year-old Paulin’s traditional hand-woven baskets can be seen along the shelves and through the glass windows of East Ludington Gallery. However, showcasing her artwork was never her intent. Thirty years ago she was just someone with a passion and an untapped potential for the creative arts. “I’ve always wanted to make something using my own hands,” she said. “Even when I was younger I was always trying to make something out of nothing.” Paulin said basket weaving began merely as an activity of recreation. She began showing her work at craft shows where the baskets sold like hotcakes, and a close friend gave her some advice that would change her life. She told her she should start her own business. Although her talent was obvious, Paulin said it wasn’t easy putting her work and herself out there.