Jewelry
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As a Jeweler, I am fascinated by post-colonization and how it has influenced Native American arts. I do this by merging beads, leather, and quills with the use of metal, plastic and other new world materials. I want to use my roots to tell my story of a blending of two worlds. I started creating art as a young girl in a studio with an elder, who taught me not only how to bead the traditional way but also gave a love for the process. We would stay up late and get lost in the size 11 Delica beads, discussing life. I will never forget those moments of excitement and the rush to get my regalia done before powwow.
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Sealed in River IceThe quills in each necklace are appropriated from Native American art originating from pre-colonial times. The quills are infused in the clear glue like ice, stuck in time, representing the preservation of cultural and identity over time and concealing the sharp edges of difficult memories.
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Retro Pop Breast PlateA chic recreation of the traditional breastplate inspired by pop culture references and the essence of the authentic Native American regalia - distinctive clothing worn and ornaments carried at formal occasions as an indication of status.
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PAGEANT BOX
Influenced by the events of a Pageant I decided to compete in, on a whim. Capturing and holding the memories of the sporadic and surprisingly fun, Miss Upper Peninsula Pageant.
Details: Brass, Copper, Delica Beads Winter 2013 |
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Native Faith and Their ObjectsNative Faith and Their Objects flourishes in the hues of passion pink and quills of a porcupine. The dynamic combination creates and contains a new age of healing. The Medicine Pouch integrates the traditional healing values of the Native American knowledge and introduces a modern sacred technology fashioned in unique copper body.
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DELICATE ARM BANDFully embellished arm cuff with floral piercing on the front-facing band to resemble a Japanese Obi Brooch, which I drew much of my inspiration. Visiting the Japanese Brooch in person at UMMA, I realized I wanted to utilize a similar color scheme, utilization, and theme in my piece.
Details: Copper, Brass, Delica Beads November 2014 |
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Sacred mannerIntegrating a bit of my own culture within a more contemporary and geometric style to elevate the traditional beading to a modern style.
Details: Copper, Delica Beads December 2013 |
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RINGSRings are probably my favorite thing to wear (even before clothing), the subtle embellishment of the hands has always intrigued me and influenced my style.
Details: Brass, Copper, Delica Beads |
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Landscape Whispers |
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PENDANTSI first learned to bead from one of my community elders; she gave me one of the best gifts I could request. She taught me how to bead the way of my people; it’s an artistry I hold close to my heart. Beading is an important part of my heritage, and it embraces the traditional practices carried on for centuries.
Details: Brass, Copper, Leather, Delica Beads |
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Floral Dwellings |
