Collection: the RODEAR collection

I was honored to present my work at The Cowgirl Art Rodear in July of this year. It was a wonderful experience to meet other artists in person and be a part of something that is making a practical difference in the lives of western women makers.

This collection is the remnants from my time at The Rodear. When I look at these pieces I see many hours of carefully protected time spent beading. I see not only the hours of stringing tiny glass beads onto my needle, but the hours upon hours of being as efficient as possible with household work and baby tending, so that I could have those precious moments at the end of my day to create this collection.

I didn’t do a great job balancing my family and work while preparing for The Rodear. But coming out on the other side of it, richer for the experience, I’m grateful for my husband, who was content with way too many hotdogs those few months, and my son, who is at that tender age of forgetfulness and unconditional affection. They are my greatest blessings, and they come first. 

I’m realizing that my identity as a wife and mother is not inferior to my identity as an artist and maker. It’s a hard truth to embrace when the culture works so hard to tell us otherwise. But I’m learning it, slowly, and I want to encourage those creative Mamas struggling to see the worth in their faithfulness in the mundane. 

Your calling is the most beautiful.

Your responsibility is the greatest.

The value of your work is unrivaled.

I dedicate these pieces to the many artists who are first spouses and parents. Those makers who prioritize their babies without losing their passions.

Much love,

Chloe