In this workshop, students reviewed samples of basic to advanced beadwork. deCoy provided an explanation of sample bead techniques and the history of beadwork. Students then discussed and experimented with their planned creations, beginning to design their approximately 3" x 3" beadwork projects and embellishments. The group participated in a loom making and loom threading demonstration, along with grid designing.

Students engaged in guided beading on looms and learned to embellish their beadwork with edging stitches. Participants completed their pieces by tying off and securing their work, then finishing them as necklaces, pouches, or framed artworks.

About DECOY GALLERINA: Rebel Irish/Chiricahua Nde’ (Apache) First Nation cross-platform artivist, Elder, direct descendant of Cochise our Chiricahua tribe's master beadwork artist

DeCoy Gallarina was raised in San Francisco/New Mexico. They have trained, attended Nde’ ceremonies with their grandmother who taught her painting, writing & beadwork beginning at age four. Celeste has had many decades of study and research in Chiricahua culture & language with Chiricahua tribal historian L.M.Darrow Decoy Gallerina has produced their girl's full maturation ceremonial regalia and all of  our cultural artifacts. Decoy has degrees from San Francisco Art Institute, California College of the Arts, College of Santa Fe, Institute of American Indian Arts, and has had extensive private training in voice, music, dance, theater, art.

Decoy draws from many Influences including the diverse New Mexico and Bay Area cultures, Jill Parker, Rene Yanez, BadUnklSista, Guillermo Gomez-Pena, Janeen Antione, Black Panthers, American Indian Movement, Standing Rock Red Warrior Camp.Her style of art is both Psychedelic Stomp to Deep Inidg to Traditional works. 

Decoy is a member of Radical Medicine, Theatre Movement International, Curator Komotion Int’l SF, Chiricahua Culture and Language Restoration Team

She has presented her work at Roots Arunachal Theater Festival 2024(India/Tibet), San Francisco International Arts Festival, Allan Houser Garden Gallery Santa Fe, and much more! She is a lyricist, writer, performance artist, actress, singer, dancer, visual artist, perpetual student.

DeCoy states “I am the manifestation of the blessings countless amazing teachers and guides have bestowed on me... And, would love to share this with all of you!!! Lalalalaallaallaaaaaaa!!!”