Title: Simply Elegant- Beaded Purse

Artist: Leith Mahkewa

Tribal Affiliation: Oneida Nation of the
Thames

Year Completed: 2022

Medium: Beadwork

Dimensions (HxWxD): (HxWxD): 10"(Base of purse to top of handle) X 9" x ¼"

Description/Inspiration:

My work tends to be very utilitarian in nature. I strive to create pieces that exemplify and honour the long standing tradition of Iroquois beadwork. I am very particular and pay close attention to my finishing detail. I am industriousness a trait that I believe inherited from my maternal grandmother. I have been fortunate to learn the Kanien'keha raised beadwork style and my work tends to follow suit, mainly floral in design. The majority of my beadwork revolves around the many different colours that can be found from nature, however some of my more recent has focused on the monochromatic colour palette. This beaded purse entitled "Simply Elegant" encompasses the elements mentioned above. The ivory coloured florals are accented by earthy browns and hints 24kt gold beads. The handle is sturdy as is the tanned and smoked deer hide that gives this piece it's durability. The cotton calico gives that added contrast that is needed to complete this piece.

Artist Bio:

Leith Mahkewa is a member of the Oneida First Nation of the Thames. She currently lives in the Kanien'kahá:ka (Mohawk) community of Kahnawake with her husband and four children. She has been elevating her artistry for the past 18 years. She tends to create pieces mainly in the Iroquois raised beadwork style and is moving towards incorporating more Hopi/Tewa imagery into her creatiosn to honour her father and his family. In the past 9 years she has been awarded ribbons at both: the Heard Museum Guild Indian Fair and Market (2013, 2014, 2020), the SWAIA Santa Fe Indian Market (2014, 2019, 2020 & 2022) and the Ganondagan Hodinosoh:ni'Art Show 2020. She has exhibited at the Kanien'kehá:ka Onkwawén:na Raotitióhkwa Language & Cultural Center (Kahnawake, QC) and the Woodland Cultural Center (Brantford, ON). Her work is part of the collections of the Hood Museum (Hanover NH) and the Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art (Overland Park, KS). Leith believes that bead work transcends the generations. The patterns and styles created by our ancestors continue to thrive at the hands of current artists who are committed to maintaining the authenticity and appreciation of this art form.

Please note:

Shipping within the U.S. & Canada is included in the purchase price. Sales tax and an additional 4% + $2.00 per item will be applied to the entire transaction to cover taxes, credit card processing, and other fees.