Dr. Jessica Metcalfe has a passion for contemporary Native design. We found each other when she was writing about high fashion designer Patricia Michaels from Taos Pueblo. While her research is academic, her blog is full of insight and great design photos.
Dr. Metcalfe is Turtle Mountain Chippewa from North Dakota, and recently earned her Ph.D. in American Indian Studies (focusing on art, literature, and education) from the University of Arizona. Currently based out of Tempe, she's reworking her dissertation on Native American designers of high fashion to turn it into a book. The blog focuses on all things related to Native fashion, and serves as an extension of her dissertation (and soon-to-be book). I find her blog fascinating.
Recently she has focused on some contemporary Native bead artists and has posted thought provoking blog entries such as "Etsy is a breeding ground for Native American stereotypes, tackiness, and tastelessness." As a watchdog for authenticity, myself, I appreciate her thoughts.
I especially enjoy her designer profiles and photos of some very creative work.
Have a look at Beyond Buckskin and join the discussion.
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