The second submission was abbreviated as I felt the story would also take up too much room. Plus, it did seem personal, but I can share here more easily.

Breathe

“Reflections”

Penelope S. Minner, Turtle Clan, Seneca, Allegany Territory, WNY, Salamanca, NY

Graphic designer, Traditional artist, black ash basketry, beadwork and corn husk

Cornhusk, cotton thread, cotton fabric backing, leather ties

As I thought about the construction of this art piece, I thought of my folks and their folks who lived through the “Great Depression” We’d ask my mom what it was like and she couldn’t explain other than she hadn’t realized they went without because they didn’t have it before. They had what they needed. It made me grateful for all that we have. We take so much for granted in this life, while others have so very little. My mother received the knowledge of corn husk doll making from her mother-in-law, my Grandma J. She took good care to prepare them with the smallest of details, even their under garments. She braided masks and mats and salt bottles but cornhusk dolls were her specialty. She gave us a gift, passing on a traditional art that was handed to her. I took the challenge and braided the face mask. I added my clan, a turtle and a flower (which she inspired) and a mini cornhusk doll (2″ tall)

As I worked, I thought of my mom. She’s been gone 22 years, and I miss her every day. The time with the mask gave me peace and clarity; it gave me time to think about our time here. Our journeys are different and we will do what we need to get through this pandemic. The braids go over and under, woven together, just as our lives are intertwined, and then stitched together – sometimes not as smoothly as we’d hoped – in the hopes that what we create in life is successful. I’m grateful for the focus of this project and the distraction from real world problems. Hopefully, you have enough. Enough love, enough optimism, enough to sustain you as we go through this challenging time. Peace be with you as you make your way through your journey. Don aho.