Eliza Skenandore
Native American Artist, Instructor, Educator
Eliza Skenandore, a proud citizen of the Oneida Nation. With a talent for raised beadwork and a passion for preserving the cultural heritage of the Oneida People. Her artistic repertoire extends beyond raised beadwork, with a wide range of traditional crafts, such as pottery, basket making, and the creation of regalia pieces. In addition to her artistic pursuits, Eliza and her family cultivate the sacred white corn of the Haudenosaunee. Eliza’s commitment to preserving and sharing the cultural richness of the Oneida People goes beyond her individual talents. Together with her husband, Shawn Skenandore, she operates Starr Merrie Native Gifts, a small business that showcases and distributes indigenous artworks.
What energizes you as you consider the future of the arts in Wisconsin?
I’m thrilled by the strong support for the arts here, with increased programs and opportunities for art creation and learning within our communities. This is crucial as art has a healing impact, and the support from fellow artists and community members is incredibly energizing for me.
Has the Wisconsin Arts Board had an impact on your work?
As we celebrate 50 years of the Wisconsin Arts Board’s dedicated efforts in fostering the arts and culture within our great state, I’m honored to share my personal experience and the profound impact they’ve had on my work and the cultural preservation initiatives of the Oneida Nation.
The Wisconsin Arts Board has been a cornerstone of support for artists and cultural programs, and I am incredibly grateful to have received a Oneida Fellowship award from them in 2023. This grant helped provide financial support and has also been a testament to the Arts Board’s commitment to recognizing and preserving the rich cultural heritage of the Oneida Nation.
Furthermore, I’m excited to share that I am part of the SEEDs Artist roster, a program that receives funding and support from the Wisconsin Arts Board. The SEEDs Artist roster serves as a platform for artists to share their unique cultural perspectives and engage with communities through educational presentations and art workshops.
With their assistance, I will be able to offer engaging presentations and workshops that promote a deeper understanding of the Oneida Nation’s traditions and history.
As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Wisconsin Arts Board, it’s evident that their continued support has been instrumental in preserving and promoting the cultural richness of our diverse communities. Their dedication to the arts and culture in Wisconsin is not only commendable but essential for the growth and vitality of our state. I am excited to be a part of this journey and look forward to continuing to contribute to the mission of the Wisconsin Arts Board. Their support has been invaluable, and I can’t wait to see what the next 50 years will bring in terms of cultural enrichment and artistic expression in our great state.
Where can we find your work?
Eliza’s website: https://www.starrmerrie.com/
50 Years of the Wisconsin Arts Board 