Ojibwe – Minnesota Chippewa Tribe, Grand Portage Band Art Form: Beadwork, Applique, Ribbonwork, Clothing, Baskets Referral Interests: Custom-made Orders, Advanced Beadwork Instruction, Lecture Demonstrations, Exhibitions Artist Statement: I believe any artistic endeavor should involve a vision. My vision has been primarily to explore my design capabilities. During my youth, I spent a great deal of time experimenting with color and design. I discovered that the design potential of an artist is practically unlimited. It was exciting to make use of my designs and the media I chose was beads. Creating designs is an individual pursuit, particularly when an artist uses her personal designs. Further, Ojibwe tradition -- including the oral tradition passed down in bead working families -- has dictated that we use our own designs. The designs portray any experience in our lives that has meaning. Thus the meaning attached to the designs is individualistic because it reflects our personal life experiences. The meaning can change with time and individual experience throughout the course of one’s life. I have been striving throughout my life to have beadwork accepted as a true art form rather than relegated to craft or folk art. It does not matter which media is used as long as an artist’s inspiration and motivations are in pursuit of her vision. A vision involves an artist’s interpretation and rationale of her existence and destiny in the universe. Such an interpretation is derived from tradition, personal beliefs and individual experience. My art is not merely an occupation or a means of financial gain. Instead it is a lifestyle consuming most of my moments. I live for my art each day of my life.
Marcie MacIntire
P.O. Box 245
Grand Portage,  MN 55605
Tel. 218-475-2146
eeolson@boreal.org