According to Black Elk, ‘The most important of all the creatures are the wingeds, for they are the nearest to the heavens.’ With wings we can look at things from both the perspective of earth and heaven at the same time. Intuition and inspiration seem to arrive unexpectedly on wings out of thin air as the first sign of any creative act. All kinds of winged beings connect us with the world beyond: the white dove of the Holy Spirit and Aphrodite, the black crow and raven, the angel, equally half-bird half-human, daimon and duende, as the voices of destiny, Mercury, the winged spirit of alchemy, the ancient shamans who flew to other worlds on their magical wings and imagination itself is winged. They return, each with their unique message.  

This Beaded Basket is a nod to community and family our Tiyospaye.  It encompasses the conviction that family is not only made up of blood relatives but all relatives, Mitákuye Oyás’iŋ.  We strive to live in harmony, supporting one another and all living things.  In the tradition of weaving beads, each has a meaning and purpose.  Prayers are spoken as they are woven and best wishes are included for the recipient.  As I create the piece a similar prayer is expressed for it to be worn in good health, happiness, abundance and with protection.

Sterling silver, 24kt and 21kt fused, hand engraved

Green Tourmaline 7mm, 75mm x 18mm

22” adjustable sterling silver oxidized chain

Native American Made: Enrolled Sicangu Lakota

Not hallmarked: due to FTC rules

Jewelry Weight: 8.03g