Regalia & Beadwork
Fabian Jenks is a member of the Ouray, Ute, and Uintah Tribes. He creates moccasins, cradleboards, purses, wallets, and other work. Traditional dancers ask for his beautiful beadwork, and he also sometimes sells work at the trading post. He also teaches the art of beadwork at the local senior center. He shows people how to make moccasins, coin purses, and regalia for pow wows.
He believes that one of the most important things he makes are beaded moccasins, which are used for many ceremonies and celebrations. He also believes cradleboards are important to keep baby’s backs straight. Sometimes, he also beads feathers for ceremonies and believes that they are vital.
He believes you have to be in the right mood to bead. He also says you have to work with the beads and what they are telling you. “The beadwork has a mind of its own too. It’s saying to you, ‘I don't want to be laid this way, you’ve got to lay it this way!’ Then the beads will be straight.”
Regalia: Traditional and special clothing, decoration, jewelry, and other adornments that are often worn or carried in formal ceremonies.