https://mymodernmet.com/navajo-beadwork-annette-bilagody/
"Beadwork is an aesthetically beautiful form of art, but it also represents so
much more than what's on the surface. The practice of beading is tethered to a
rich history and culture within Indigenous communities. Unique to each tribe,
the art form is passed down through generations. Many older generations
continue to create beaded designs, but 96-year-old Navajo beadworker Annette
Bilagody has amassed a particularly stunning body of work. Her vibrant and
intricate pieces continue to keep this long-held tradition relevant and an
esteemed expression of culture. The art form has also provided a way for
Bilagody’s family members to remain close to her. This is especially true of
her granddaughter Attiya Bennet, who is a fellow beadworker herself.
Recently, Attiya realized that the beautiful craftsmanship of her grandmother’s
work needed to be shared with the world. “Every time I would visit my grandma,
I saw she had bundles of necklaces piling up,” Attiya recounts. She then asked
her grandmother if she could take a few photos of her work and put them on
social media to sell. The first post advertising her grandmother's creations
had sold out in a mere 30 minutes. For the second posting, $1,000 was earned.
Bilagody, amazed, remarked how it was the most she had ever made in her life
off of her beadwork. “Usually I get a little bit of money from one sale here
and another there,” she admits. “Thank you to whoever bought my jewelry, and
may it make you strong.”"
Via
mudhooks@pluspora.com.
Share and enjoy,
*** Xanni ***
--
mailto:xanni@xanadu.net Andrew Pam
http://xanadu.com.au/ Chief Scientist, Xanadu
https://glasswings.com.au/ Partner, Glass Wings
https://sericyb.com.au/ Manager, Serious Cybernetics
