Description
This sterling silver necklace honors the legacy of Cherokee women. The hand-cut pendant features a Cherokee woman, shaped through meticulous stamping, milling, and soldering. Behind her, a milled DNA double helix symbolizes the inheritance of identity, knowledge, and traditions.
To her left, three flowers in various stages of bloom represent the women who came before—mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. To her right, three flowers symbolize future generations—daughter, granddaughter, and great-granddaughter. These blooms remind us that culture is not only inherited but also nurtured and passed forward, ensuring its survival through the strength and wisdom of each generation.
Materials
Sterling silver.
Alica Wildcatt
Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians
About the Artist
Alica Murphy Wildcatt, the visionary artist behind Greybeard Metalsmithing, has carved a niche for herself by blending exquisite craftsmanship with cultural preservation. A proud member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee, Alica draws deeply from her heritage, using her metalsmithing skills to create pieces that are not just stunning works of art but also poignant reflections of Cherokee culture and identity. Each piece she crafts tells a story rooted in Cherokee traditions, symbols, and myths, ensuring these elements endure in the modern world.
Through Greybeard Metalsmithing, she uses her artistic platform to educate and inspire, highlighting the resilience and richness of her culture. Alica’s work is more than her livelihood; it serves as a bridge between generations, encouraging young Cherokee artists to explore their roots through art. By showcasing her work at cultural festivals, galleries, and workshops, she fosters awareness and appreciation for Cherokee artistry and heritage, ensuring that the legacy of her people continues to thrive in contemporary society.
