Vicky Watson and her daughter, Jennifer Saenz (Cherokee names Kamama and Ahyoka), share a deep passion for Native American beadwork, a craft that connects them to their Cherokee roots. In 2022, they began learning beadwork, using it to preserve their heritage and tell the stories of their ancestors. Their style, which they trademarked ‘Beadtelling,’ combines historical accuracy and emotional resonance to create powerful portrait beadwork.

Their artistic journey took a significant turn when they were invited to attend a workshop at the Oklahoma Fall Arts Institute (OFAI). Both had admired the institute for years, with Vicky having been a teacher and Jennifer attending previously as a journalist. When they learned that renowned artist Joe Baker was leading a Native American beading workshop, they knew it was an opportunity they couldn’t miss.

Joe Baker, an artist, educator, and cultural ambassador, has spent over 40 years preserving and sharing Native culture. As an enrolled member of the Delaware Tribe of Indians of Oklahoma, Baker's expertise in beadwork made him the ideal mentor. His workshop provided Vicky and Jennifer the chance to not only improve their skills but also gain a deeper understanding of the cultural significance behind the craft.

The workshop, which they were invited to at the last minute, allowed them to learn directly from Baker in an immersive studio environment. The extended time gave them the opportunity to refine techniques, such as thread tension and design, while receiving personalized guidance from Baker. His passion for Native culture and his connection to their roots made the experience transformative for them both.

Beadwork has become a way for Vicky and Jennifer to honor their Cherokee heritage. Their family’s deep ties to the Cherokee Nation, including land once part of the allotment, shape the stories they tell through their art. Their work, displayed in venues like the Oklahoma History Museum, focuses on Native American portraits that honor the strength and resilience of their people.

Cayuse Native American – Beaded by Cherokee Artist Jennifer Saenz

Through their work, Vicky and Jennifer are not only preserving their own heritage but also sharing the stories of their people with the world. With each bead, they contribute to the ongoing narrative of Native American culture.

Looking ahead, Vicky and Jennifer are excited to continue their artistic journey, including the upcoming exhibition “Threads of Untold History,” funded by the Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition’s THRIVE grant. This project will focus on creating beadwork portraits of Freedmen and Freedmen Descendants of the Five Civilized Tribes, exploring an often-overlooked part of Native history.

Threads of Untold History will be on display at Fulton Street Books in Tulsa from March 29 through April 25. The opening reception will be on March 29 from 2-4pm, with Cherokee Nation Principal Chief, Chuck Hoskin Jr. giving remarks.

Wes Studi, Actor and Cherokee Citizen, – Beaded by Cherokee Artist Vicky Watson