I tried this method on a basket were it is was critical to have the spokes move outward, and I found that his his method works and basket came out perfect. Ed is confined to his bed, but he enjoys talking with other basket makers. He doesn't have a computer, but anyone having questions may send them to me and I will pass them on. Break off one of the ends from the inside if you have to and see if it untwists. It is typically woven on a loom and bent around a frame.
True wicker is solid material and woven onto or into the framework.
Some moisture is good for it as it helps to preserve the fibers but being kept continually wet could cause it to rot. Regarding refinishing - all of the above applies. If depression, you cannot totally refinish it. Use a stiff brush and clean up as much of the old chipped paint as possible. You may be able to hand strip off a few of the top layers of paint, but do not get down to the bare wicker as it will disintegrate being just paper.