MARY JACOBS

SENECA, TURTLE Clan

 

“I enjoy beading and take pleasure in watching my creations take shape.”

 

Jacobs was introduced to this art form by her grandmother, Kathryn Jamerson, who lived on reservation lands that were taken by eminent domain and flooded with the construction of the Kinzua Dam. “My dad used to take us there to visit and beadwork kept some of us busy, outta everyone’s hair,” Jacobs recalls.

 

After her grandmother's passing Jacobs sought the guidance of Sue Gates and local elders to cultivate her skills. Flowers, birds, and vines feature prominently in her work, cherished subjects of old, reinterpreted anew in vibrant color and layered glass.

 

 

 

Beaded Velvet New Age Hat, 2013

Velvet, glass beads, and satin ribbon

 

NYSM E2013.70