Tribute to the Ones Who Came Before
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The Journey of Her Tears
In 1838, the Cherokee of North Carolina began a 1,200-mile march to Oklahoma. This forced removal of the Native people from their tribal homeland would later become know as ‘The Trail of Tears.’ There is a legend about a special rock, the rose rock, that is found along the trail’s path. It states that wherever a drop of Cherokee blood or a Cherokee teardrop fell to the earth, a rose rock would form. A piece of barite crystal would form into a rose that would bloom forever as a tribute to their sorrow. I was first drawn to a single barite rose for its burst-like shape. Not knowing its name or origins, I researched my mystery find and soon discovered its distinct ties to Oklahoma and the Cherokee Nation. I knew I wanted to honor this small piece of history and incorporate my passion for the spirits of powerful women. In preparation for creating this piece, I spent countless hours at the library and online absorbing all I could about Cherokee customs, clothing, and culture. I constructed the form of a woman and wrapped her in a blanket, as many were forced to leave their homes and make the journey carrying only what they had on their backs. I incorporated Cherokee colors and patterns in my design in addition to dozens of rose rocks. The woman proudly wears a strand of roses around her neck. This piece is a tribute to the strong Cherokee women—those who perished, those who survived, and their proud decedents amongst us today.
5'8" x2'6" Leather, tiles, glass beads, raw amber, polished jasper, wood beads, stained glass, Oklahoma Cherokee Roses, coral, burnt copper, silver, cork, beach glass, wood SOLD |
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The Betrayal of 'Unci Make'
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