I'm thrilled to share that my raised beaded picture frame, In Memory's Embrace, was awarded 3rd place in the Theme category at the Woodland Indian Art Show. This year’s theme, “Spirit of Our Ancestors,” provided a powerful opportunity to reflect on the wisdom, resilience, and creativity of those who came before us.
This piece holds deep personal significance for me, as it was created with the intention of framing a photograph of my father, who passed away four years ago. His memory is woven into the spirit of this piece; he serves as a connection to our family's heritage and as one of my guiding figures in life.
I hope that In Memory's Embrace will inspire others to celebrate their own family legacies and to feel the ongoing presence of their ancestors in their lives. Being recognized at the Woodland Indian Art Show is a true honor, and I am grateful to be able to share this piece and its story with others.
My Artist Statement:
This raised beaded picture frame is a tribute to the enduring wisdom and presence of our ancestors, who continue to shape our identity, values, and culture. Through each bead, I am honoring the artistry and resilience passed down through generations, preserving our traditional methods and the spirit of our people. The beading itself serves as a link between generations, a tangible way to keep the knowledge and skills of our ancestors alive.
The heart of the design is the strawberry, a sacred symbol in our Haudenosaunee creation story. According to tradition, Skywoman brought the strawberry plant with her from the Skyworld when she fell into our world. In this way, the strawberry represents life, renewal, and the continued flow of knowledge from one generation to the next. Its inclusion in the frame is a reminder of our connection to the Earth, to the gifts we have received, and to the responsibilities we carry forward.
This frame is meant to hold a photograph of my father, who passed away four years ago. His presence in this piece embodies the theme "Spirit of Our Ancestors," as he is one of the guiding figures in my life, connecting me to our family’s heritage and instilling in me the importance of honoring those who came before us. Through his memory, I feel the wisdom and strength of all who came before him.
In creating this piece, I aimed to bridge the past and the present, celebrating both the guidance of my father and the many ancestors whose legacy continues through us. I hope that this frame will inspire others to reflect on their own family legacies and to feel the ongoing embrace of those who came before them.
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