Pendant depicting Chilkat Blanket Face, c. 1990
by Patty Fawn, Cherokee and Adopted Kwakwaka'wakw
walrus ivory, abalone inlays, walrus ivory beads
pendant: 1.75” high x 1.75” wide, 24" long
Jeweler Patty Fawn is a member of the renowned Lelooska Family from Ariel, Washington. Patty is the sister of carvers and story tellers Lelooska (1933-1996) and Tsungani, and the daughter of doll maker Shona-Hah (1912-1997). Patty's Kwakwaka’wakw name, means "precious as copper". The name suits her well. Patty's spontaneity, warmth, and loving concern for others endears her to all who meet her.
A gifted and versatile artist, Patty specializes in Northwest Coast Indian jewelry and small sculpture. She works with both traditional and contemporary designs, drawing upon the mythology of the Northwest Coast Peoples for inspiration. Her materials include fossilized ivory, silver, gold, bone, shell, antler, and occasionally wood. Of particular interest to collectors are Patty's special pieces and limited edition works cast in silver, gold and bronze are from ivory originals.
Like all members of the Lelooska family, Patty devoted considerable amounts of time to the educational programs held at their traditional cedar lodge in Ariel, which is opened to the public for nights of traditional storytelling and dancing. She was a talented dancer and adept at demonstrating Indian arts and crafts. Today, Patty and her husband have semi-retired to the state of Arizona where she continues to create her beautiful work.
