As I wind down my Van Gogh Series, I've been thinking about another one. One inspired by nature and native peoples. I recently met up with some bloggy friends (Christine and Sally), which was just so much fun to get to know them better in person. Christine gave me a few pieces from a trip where she picked up some great rocks from the shore of Lake Michigan. And now I have ideas swirling in my head for a new series. This piece is currently on the bead table. I posted it on CBC (Creative Bead Chat) last night to see if I could get some inspiration on how to finish this necklace. I got suggestions from knotted suede, to beaded spiral rope to simple stringing. I'm still thinking it through.
Until then, I'll leave you with some iconic pictures of Native American culture: the headdress. Not all tribes wore a headdress, but those that did typically reserved the right for the tribe leaders. The ones shown here are Sioux. They were mostly ceremonial, worn with pride, as another feather was added for each brave act by the person wearing it.A little known fact is that women did not participate in making the headdress. Only men. Usually it was the privilege of the chief or the warrior's closest friends and allies. Of all the feathers, the golden eagle feather was the most coveted. It brought great reverence and respect from the rest of the tribe. The colors of the feathers depended on what birds were indigenous to the area, and the strap on the headdress typically made of leather. Ha! I believe we have our answer to how I should finish my necklace. I am now off to find just the right piece. I'll be back with pictures.
I totally see where you are going with that. It reads very clearly!
ReplyDeleteMy tribe is the Athabascan. :D
ReplyDeleteI've always been fascinated by the Native American headdresses. Love how you incorporate the feather element into your new necklace! Can't wait to see the finished piece!
ReplyDeletep.s. everyone, well the women, asked about the unique lariat I wore yesterday and of course I directed them to your shop :)
My children are actually part American Indian and I've been learning so much through the field trips we've been doing at their schools. I also saw the amazing exhibition at that huge museum in New York near the financial district which is so beautifully put together.
ReplyDeleteI saw this pic on the CBC FB page and I think it is awesome! I do see where you are headed here and can't wait to see the complete design!
ReplyDeleteLooking great! I am excited to see it finished. It is stunning how much your piece looks like a headdress! And I love how the answer revealed itself ;-)
ReplyDeleteThis is going to be gorgeous; can't wait to see it finished.
ReplyDeleteHappy Christmas to you and yours!
What you are creating, is going to be so beautiful, when you are finished! I love Native arts and crafts. And, the work they put into there clothes is amazing!
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