Jessica R. Metcalfe, Beadwork and Jewlery
Title of Work: Lapis Hoop Necklace Clouds Drop
Artist: Jessica R. Metcalfe
Tribal Affiliation: Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa
Date of Work: 2024
Description: The Lapis Hoop Necklace Cloud Drop symbolizes a profound intersection between the celestial and the earthly, speaking to the timeless connections between Native people and the natural world. Through the deep, cosmic blue of the lapis stone and the grounded, geometric structure of the pyramid, Metcalfe weaves together an ancient narrative of balance, strength, and wisdom. This work reflects Indigenous traditions that root individuals in both spiritual and material realms, inviting wearers to recognize their part in the broader cosmic fabric. The piece not only speaks to its beauty but also calls upon its audience to understand the inherent interconnectedness of all things, a theme that resonates with viewers of this exhibit. In this context, the Lapis Hoop Necklace Cloud Drop also invites reflection on contemporary sovereignty—both political and cultural. By drawing on traditional symbols and translating them into a modern form, Metcalfe asserts the continuing presence and relevance of Indigenous art, identity, and ways of being. This sovereignty is not just about land or governance; it is about the right to exist and create on one’s own terms, carrying forward traditions while also innovating and adapting. The necklace, in its blend of the ancient and the contemporary, is a declaration of that sovereignty, offering a subtle yet profound challenge to the viewer to see Native cultures as vibrant, evolving, and deeply connected to the forces that shape the world.
Citation: Metcalfe, Jessica R. Lapis Hoop Necklace Cloud Drop, metal and lapis stone, 2024 https://shop.beyondbuckskin.com/product/lapis-moon-hoop-necklace-pyramid-drop.
Title of Work: Miigwan Beaden Medalion Slate
Artist: Jessica R. Metcalfe
Tribal Affiliation: Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa
Date of Work: 2024
Description: The Miigwan Beaded Medalion Slate embodies the ethereal connection between the spirit world and the earthly realm. The delicate feather, gracefully rendered, symbolizes freedom, ascension, and the guidance of ancestral spirits. Each bead, meticulously chosen, reflects the rich tapestry of Indigenous identity, interweaving narratives of resilience, history, and cultural pride. This piece invites the wearer to embrace their journey, carrying with them the wisdom and protection of their ancestors. As they adorn themselves with this pendant, they become a living testament to the strength found in heritage, embodying the sacred interplay between self and spirit. The pendant speaks not only to the beauty of craftsmanship but also to the deeper significance of flight—both literal and metaphorical—reminding us that we are all part of a greater narrative that transcends time and space. This pendant also serves as a bridge between past and present, illustrating the continuity of Indigenous artistry and the enduring connection to cultural roots. Metcalfe's work invites reflection on the ways in which traditional practices have been carried forward, adapted, and transformed by contemporary artists. In this continuity lies a profound statement about resilience and the ability of Indigenous communities to preserve their identity amidst the tides of change. The feather, a symbol of flight, becomes a metaphor for this journey, reminding us that while we navigate the complexities of modern existence, we carry the wisdom and teachings of those who have come before us. Thus, the Miigwan Beaded Medalion Slate stands not only as a piece of art but as a vessel of continuity, encapsulating the stories of generations and celebrating the vibrant spirit of Indigenous culture.
Citation: Metcalfe, Jessica R. Miigwan Feather Beaded Pendant, slate and beads, 2024 (Beyond Buckskin) https://shop.beyondbuckskin.com/product/miigwan-feather-beaded-pendant-slate.
Title of Work: Beaded Mikinaak Medallion Brave
Artist: Jessica R. Metcalfe
Tribal Affiliation: Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa
Date of Work: 2024
Description: The Beaded Mikinaak Pendant Brave captures the essence of resilience and transformation inherent in the natural world. The turtle, intricately beaded, symbolizes longevity and the strength found in perseverance. As a creature deeply connected to both land and water, the turtle serves as a reminder of the importance of grounding oneself while navigating the complexities of life. Each bead in this piece reflects a unique story, weaving together personal and collective narratives of bravery, endurance, and cultural identity. This pendant invites the wearer to embrace their inner strength, carrying forth the spirit of those who have faced adversity with courage and grace. In its design, this pendant illustrates the continuity of Indigenous values, embodying the teachings passed down through generations. The turtle is not only a significant figure in many Native American creation stories, but it also represents the ongoing relationship between people and the earth. By wearing this pendant, individuals connect with the wisdom of their ancestors, honoring the legacies of resilience and bravery that shape their identities. Metcalfe’s work highlights the enduring nature of Indigenous artistry, where traditional symbolism is seamlessly woven into contemporary expression, reminding us that while we may evolve, our cultural roots remain a steadfast source of strength. The Beaded Mikinaak Pendant Brave thus becomes a powerful emblem of identity, continuity, and the unyielding spirit of Indigenous communities.
Citation: Metcalfe, Jessica R. Beaded Mikinaak Pendant: Brave, beads and metal, 2024 (Beyond Buckskin) https://shop.beyondbuckskin.com/product/beaded-mikinaak-pendant-brave.