Native Art

And the Bead Goes On: Open Beading Circle Workshop

18+

In this five-day workshop, you will study the beadwork designs and techniques of Jennifer Ben, master Diné (Navajo), beadwork artist. You will receive detailed hands-on instruction and demonstrations on creating an array of beaded wearable art projects using quality materials such as Swarovski crystals and European glass cut beads.

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Overview

This workshop is specially designed for beaders of all levels. Advanced students are encouraged to bring projects that need troubleshooting, completion, or inspiration. Beginners are also welcome! Jennifer will assist you in completing a beaded work of art at the level best comfortable with your pace. This workshop is ideal for those who enjoy roundtable engagement, learning, and laughter; all pastimes highly regarded in Indigenous communities.

Beaded jewelry projects can include beaded medallions, earrings, necklaces, and cuff bracelets. Jennifer will also teach ornamentation techniques such as beaded fringing. You will leave at the end of the workshop with a beaded expression of your personal style.

You are encouraged to continue beading in the evenings to finish your piece. With time permitting, Jennifer will instruct you to create beading projects you can take home. There will be ongoing informal critiques throughout the workshop to support completion and success for all students.

Additional Information

Jennifer Ben (Diné) is from Shiprock, NM, and is a multidimensional artist. Her first medium was as a classical cellist leading to composition and sound production. Her passion lies in the land and finding creative ways to express her love for nature and its resonance. Throughout her time working in agriculture, Ben uses beadwork to tell these stories of the land and plants. Jennifer has worked extensively as an artist in residence and demonstrator at the Heard Museum in Phoenix, Arizona and has participated in the Heard Museum Indian Fair and Market. Her work reflects her various passions, such as music, food sovereignty, traditional farming methodologies, and Diné philosophy, her inspiration is grounded in how agricultural fields interact with one another, creating a story unique to her experiences.

Includes beads, beading thread, needles, beading mat, personal tools, leather backing and Pelon material, paper, pencil, marking pens.

2-3 sketches/design concepts, approximate sizing: 3×3 inches.

Optional:
● additional beads to incorporate into project
● lamp for extra lighting
● reading glasses or lamp with magnification

Each day, your workshop starts at 9 am. Lunch is served from 12 pm to 1 pm. Workshops all recommence at 1 pm and wrap up at 4 pm. Dinner is served from 5 pm to 7 pm. NOTE: Some instructors allow for after-hour work sessions. If the instructor(s) is/are willing and present in the classroom, you can work on your pieces after 4 pm.

1) Native American Community Members, Leaders, Artists, and Teachers.

For adults 18 and older with current tribal affiliation, the scholarship brings community leaders, artists, members, and teachers to workshops at Idyllwild Arts to benefit both the scholarship recipient and those in their schools or tribal communities. Applicants with financial needs may receive priority. We also offer scholarships for Native American Teens for both the Summer Program and the Academy.

Click here for more information about adult scholarships.

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