Abstract: Rhonda's people, the Abenaki, are a Northeastern Algonkian people, and one of the five members of the Wabanaki Confederacy [1] known in their own language as W banakiak meaning "People of the Dawn [ie eastern] Land" or "Easterners". Historically, Abenaki territory extended over much of northern New England, southern Quebec, and the southern Maritimes region of Canada.
For centuries, the people of the Wabanaki Nations of the northeastern United States and eastern Canada used signs, symbols and designs to communicate with one another. As Native Peoples became victims of European expansion, the Wabanaki were separated by war, the search for work and intermarriage, as well as by hiding their identities to avoid persecution. In this diaspora, their visual language helped them keep their teachings and culture alive. Their designs have evolved over time and taken on different meanings, and they are now used on objects that are considered art. While their beauty is undeniable, these pieces cannot be fully appreciated without understanding their context. Tribal member Jeanne Morningstar Kent sheds light on this language, from the work of ancient Wabanaki to today’s artists—like David Moses Bridges, Donna Sanipass and Jennifer Neptune—once again using their medium to connect with their fellow Wabanaki.
I'm honored to be included in this lovely and timely book........you can order from me directly.
"A Proud Heritage.......Rhonda Besaw Revives a Beadwork Tradition" by Eileen Alexander Fall 2011 edition of WRENZINE click here to read article
Bead Society of Great Britain
You can read about my beadwork by clicking on the image to the left. This article was written by Richard Green.
Richard is a specialist in Native American art, a contributing writer to "Whispering Wind" magazine, author of "A Warrior I Have Been" and my dear friend and mentor.
