Deana Ward

 
Deana Ward is a proud Choctaw from Durant, OK. She grew up in a multi-generational family that spoke fluent Choctaw. She attended Grace Indian Baptist Church as a child and still maintains the traditions that were modeled for her. Deana went on to raise five children all while earning a doctorate in Psychology. She is a loyal Oklahoma State University alumni. She came to beadwork a little late in life but quickly learned different stitches and how to incorporate Southeastern Native culture into her art. Her work centers around cultural identity and the methods in which we evolve.  Today, Deana works primarily with children. 

Shohmalali (Reflection)

Medium: Beadwork

30” x 6” x 2”

$9,000

Pre-Contact, swans were prolific for Choctaws. Swans were used in ceremony, fashion, and cuisine. This is not well known today. The back of this purse is hand and machine quilted. I come from a long line of quilters. I wanted to pay homage to the matriarchs that have come before me.