And the Bead Goes On: Open Beading Circle Workshop

Jennifer Ben (Diné) is from Shiprock, NM, and is a multidimensional artist. Her first medium was as a classical cellist, which led to composition and sound production. Her passion lies in the land and finding creative ways to express her love for nature and its resonance. While working in agriculture, Ben uses beadwork to tell stories about 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, creating a story unique to her experiences.

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

2-3 sketches/design concepts (approx 3×3 inches in size)

Optional:

• additional beads to incorporate into project
• lamp for extra lighting
• reading glasses or lamp with magnification

Your workshop starts at 9 a.m. each day. Lunch is served from 12 to 1 p.m. Workshops resume at 1 p.m. and wrap up at 4 p.m. Dinner is served from 5 to 7 p.m. You are welcome to join evening programming led by other adult art programs.

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.

Generous donors have made scholarships and fellowships for adult workshops available on a limited basis for these specific groups:

1) Native American Community Leaders, Artists, Members, and Teachers.
2) Inland Empire Teachers, Professors, and graduate students.

Scholarships include tuition, dorm housing, and all meals provided by the campus dining service. Transportation to and from campus is not provided, and the $50 registration fee is not included.

Scholarship Details:
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 recipients 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.

2) Inland Empire Teachers, Professors, and graduate students.
For adults 18 and older who are current teachers in lower and higher education who will benefit from learning about Native American Arts and Culture to take back into the classroom as well as currently enrolled graduate students. The scholarship is designed to provide professional development for those in education to share with their learning communities.

Click here for more information about adult scholarships.