Description

This is the first beaded portrait of Redfeather (Cherokee/Creek), created with approximately 4,000 beads, made one at a time. She was a singer, performer and advocate for Native American education, born in Eufaula, Oklahoma.Her talents were discovered while she was attending an Indian boarding school. She left the boarding school and received scholarships for piano and vocal training in Denver, Colorado, and New York. She performed at the Metropolitan Opera.She beaded the headbands and clothing that she wore herself.This beaded portrait was designed by Jennifer Saenz and beaded by her mother, Vicky Watson, both Cherokee Nation citizens.

About the Artist

Jennifer Saenz is a citizen of the Cherokee Nation from Mustang, Oklahoma. Her Cherokee name is Ahyoka. She is a graduate of Oklahoma Baptist University. She began beading in 2022 and specializes in historical portrait beadwork. In 2025, she held her latest exhibition titled "Threads of Untold History" in Tulsa and Oklahoma City. This exhibition, along with her beadwork, will be displayed at the Five Civilized Tribes Museum in October 2025. Additionally, in 2024, her beaded portrait of Wilma Mankiller was featured in the "Into the Mirror" exhibition at the Oklahoma History Center Museum. In addition to beadwork, she also practices silversmithing, twining, and creating Cherokee double-wall reed baskets. Jennifer continues to live in Oklahoma and actively participates in Cherokee culture.Vicky Watson is also a citizen of the Cherokee Nation from Mustang, Oklahoma. Her Cherokee name is Kamama. She is a graduate of the University of Central Oklahoma. She began beading in 2022 and specializes in historical portrait beadwork, drawing inspiration from images of prominent historical figures from the Cherokee Nation. In 2025, she held her latest exhibition titled "Threads of Untold History" in Tulsa and Oklahoma City. This exhibition, along with her beadwork, will be displayed at the Five Civilized Tribes Museum in October 2025. Additionally, in 2024, her beaded portrait of Sequoyah was featured in the "Into the Mirror" exhibition at the Oklahoma History Center Museum. Vicky creates intricate beadwork that captures the essence of Cherokee and Native American cultures, ensuring that these traditions are passed down to future generations. In addition to beadwork, she also practices silversmithing, twining, and creating Cherokee double-wall reed baskets. Vicky continues to live in Oklahoma and actively participates in Cherokee culture.

Pickup & Shipping

All artworks sold will be shipped from the gallery after the show closes. Packages should go out no later than September 20, 2025. Visit here to learn more about shipping and handling as well as tax-exempt purchases.