The Legendary Hitchhikers are proud to welcome Beadwork by Connie at our wild west show on April 11th, 2104. Connie Ortega is of authentic Native American descent (Jicarilla Apache). She combines ancient art traditions with contemporary designs to create unique designs. Each piece also comes with a certificate of authenticity.
Connie has immersed herself in beadwork for over a decade, fashioning jewelry, hair ornaments, hatbands, the stems of celebratory goblets and fancy salt and pepper shakers, one-of-kind wine and champagne glasses, beaded baby shoes, and even in colorful glass rosaries.
This intricate beadwork is inspired by a vanishing native tradition. It’s a painstaking and time-consuming art that requires intense patience and dedication. Many pieces have been developed for individuals, to become heirloom keepsakes. She utilizes authentic , traditional stitches and designs she was taught as a child. Connie incorporates the old and the new, utilizing contemporary colors to make exquisite new creations while keeping the ancient art alive.
Connie’s work is displayed in various museums and galleries. She has also been featured on the back cover of Bead Unique Magazine (winter, 2009) and in a special issue of Bead Style Magazine (2008). Her own gallery, Custom Beadwork by Connie, is located at the Eagle’s Nest, on the rim of the Royal Gorge. She also shows here beadwork at powwows, fine art shows and Indian markets.
The Legendary Hitchhikers 