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(Music by Two Dark Birds)
Tribal elder and moccasin maker Mabel Pike passed away last week. In honor of her memory, we’ve brought this piece back from the archives. She leaves us a legacy of inspiration.
Tlingit Native elder Mabel Pike first learned how to sew moccasins from her great-grandmother in the 1920s. After her village in Douglas, Alaska burned down in 1926, Mabel’s parents moved their family to Juneau, where Mabel and her sisters began selling their handcrafted Native wares.
At 91 years old, Mabel has been doing needlework all of her life. She has never been able to make her living solely from her handicrafts, but she’s not in it for the money. As a Tlingit master artist, she has taught beadwork at Stanford University and is on the board of the Alaska Native Heritage Center. With a deep-seated passion for beading, Mabel is dedicated to passing on the the traditions of her clan’s culture.
There are many clans of native peoples in Alaska. Some still live as hunter-gatherers in rural villages, carrying on the ways of their ancestors, while others live in the city, trading with friends and family for materials. By supporting indigenous artists, we sustain not only their craft, but also their knowledge and living history. This history is just as important to their local economies today as it was a hundred years ago, before Western culture was integrated into their own.
Mabel Pike sells her wares at local craft fairs or for similar work look in the Alaska Native Arts Foundation’s online shop. Read about non-profit ANAF and its founder Alice Rogoff in an earlier Etsy Blog post featuring their former gallery in NYC, Alaska House.
This piece was originally published January 18, 2011.
229 comments
Sign in to add your ownVogueByVague says:
oh, this is so sweet! I understand losing yourself in your work. Thank you for this article!
2 years ago
Jusadreamin says:
Beautiful work THANKS for sharing
2 years ago
thecottagemarket says:
this is precious -- love this special article! i can see the love in your work and completely "get" how you can just go into another world while doing it! a very special article indeed! : )
2 years ago
JudiPaintedit says:
Truly amazing!!!!
2 years ago
polkadotmagpie says:
What a beautiful piece. I watched it 3 times. I hope at 91 I am still working with my hands. I collect Native Art, and just realized I don't have a pair of moccasins. Those red raven ones called my name. :-)
2 years ago
DecadesOfVintage says:
I appreciate the tenacity with which you hold on to the "old" way of doing your beading.
2 years ago
remodernseries says:
beautiful. :)
2 years ago
DecadesOfVintage says:
Thank you weirdwolf for bring Mabel to us.
2 years ago
prairiechicxx says:
Mabel is a beautiful woman, and it shows in her bead work. Maybe a new category for Etsy is needed that highlights "Cultural Art and Traditions". Very inspiring article, thank you.
2 years ago
JMGJewelDesign says:
She is just as sweet as pie, I could give her a big smooch!
2 years ago
simplyworn says:
what a touching piece love her passion and kind words beautiful work!
2 years ago
myvintagecrush says:
So cute, go Mabel!
2 years ago
auntjanecan says:
This is a great article and Mabel's work is so completely beautiful and wonderful. Thank you for having this article here about a great master!
2 years ago
ndnchick says:
Great Article! :)
2 years ago
Andriano says:
Grateful I am for your eyes that have seen and passed on .. and the embrace that Mabel shares with us all..
2 years ago
TEJIDOS says:
Such beautiful work Mabel! It's just wonderful that you pass on your cultures handiwork, and nothing like a master to learn from.
2 years ago
SusanFaye says:
I'm so inspired! Thanks for sharing Mabel's story and her beautiful work!
2 years ago
meganandmona says:
Mabel is a wonderful lady. It's so important to pass on skills, and like her I learnt from my grandmothers. Really made my day and would love to see more of Mabel.
2 years ago
Nikifashion says:
Wonderful article and work!
2 years ago
thelittlemarket says:
Beautiful story and work!! Congrats to Mabel!
2 years ago
mycrochetgarden says:
Amazing! Does she have an Etsy shop?
2 years ago
JustColor says:
What a wonderful article. Loved reading about the history of your art and where it came from. Beautiful, intricate work.
2 years ago
sunkae says:
***Wow nice native work!***
2 years ago
CuteCraftDecor says:
very great story!
2 years ago
CoolStuffByDesign says:
Love the article! Thanks for sharing Mabel's story.
2 years ago
PineappleHappy says:
She reminds me so much of my Grandma. She was a Choctaw and I have a couple of her beaded pieces. Thanks for sharing this Etsy!
2 years ago
t8designs says:
by far the best handmade portrait yet. thanks for sharing Mabel!
2 years ago
maggiemaevintage says:
what an inspiration... lovely handiwork Mabel!
2 years ago
leimani says:
My grandma was Maude Gaddis,a teacher there long ago. I have pictures of her students and the school from I think 1902. Is there any records from back in the day?Interested in scans of photos ?
2 years ago
FavreBijoux says:
Beautiful story. Bookmarking this.
2 years ago
BingoBox says:
Great film - wonderful story !! Thank you so much for sharing Mabel : )
2 years ago
monkeyandsquirrel says:
absolutely beautiful little story... a great reminder to make things because you love the process not receiving the payment!
2 years ago
mother8daughter says:
Your story is so lovely! The moccasins are amazing! This encompasses the whole energy behind the new etsy shop my mother and I have just opened. I remember my great grandmother, grandmother, my mom and I sitting around a huge blocked out quilt when I was a young girl. My great grandmother quilted by hand until she passed at 97. Mamo, my mother's mom, passed a couple of years ago leaving us her supplies. Together, my mom and I carry on the tradition of crafting, and we now sell some of our items on etsy, using many of these vintage/antique materials. It is so wonderful to see the art of craft carrying on through the generations, and etsy is a huge part of that. Thanks for a wonderful post. We love you Mabel!
2 years ago
tiialin says:
Once again, the Handmade Portraits Video has told a maker's love story superbly. It's why I long for the return of Mom and Pop specialty. It's a great reminder about what makes the small business so grand.
2 years ago
TheIDconnection says:
Very Beautiful Work. I wish I had the talent. Monica
2 years ago
TexaKen says:
Exquisite work! I love knowing that the "old ways" are being preserved. It is our desire that all the youngsters out there will somehow come to love and respect the simpler times. What a lovely story, and a beautiful lady! Thank you so much!
2 years ago
girltuesdayjewelry says:
Beautiful! Thank you!
2 years ago
terrymillsphoto says:
Thank you for sharing your story, we enjoyed it so much. We love Alaska and would live there if we could. You are a real inspiration to us all, still productive at 91. Good for you.
2 years ago
mooshoopork says:
as part native myself... i am so drawn to old stories and arts of the different tribes. what a lovely lady and inspiration! thank you for sharing it with us :)
2 years ago
NangijalaJewelry says:
This is genuine art that was passed on for generations. A very moving piece of film that I will always keep in my heart! Wonderful work created with heart, soul and spirit. Thank you!
2 years ago
thepapermoonstudio says:
Love this. The designs are beautiful! Love those Muklucks!
2 years ago
blueroompottery says:
God bless you!! What a wonderful 91 year old little girl!!! Oh, I wish I can be like you, if I make it to be your age! All my love, Marietta
2 years ago
grandmamarievintage says:
Such an inspiring article and beautiful beautiful pieces!
2 years ago
minouette says:
I really enjoyed this film and seeing her beautiful work. Thank you!
2 years ago
WoodlandCottage says:
Thank you for highlighting cultural and traditional arts. Etsy is a way to keep this knowledge within our cultures--YEA ETSY!
2 years ago
odiliafu says:
Enjoy the video. What an inspiring story. Mabel's works are just beautiful!
2 years ago
EllaJewelry says:
Beautiful work! thanks for sharing!
2 years ago
CLWPottery says:
Mabel was my grandmothers name. she made a lot of my clothing when I was a little girl. It keeps the blues away, she would say. Thank you Mabel for sharing your story with us. You do beautiful work!!
2 years ago
SunnyDayDiggs says:
What a beautiful 'Handmade Portrait'!! My family and I live up here in Northern Minnesota on Leech Lake reservation where we are extremely lucky to have the opportunity to learn from and about the Native Ojibwe. Mabel, what an extraordinary woman and inspiration you are. So happy and honored you allowed us a this glimpse of your life. Thank you!! You certainly have made my day brighter...xoxo
2 years ago
choctaw says:
This is such a wonderful positive story.Mabel is such a highly skilled artist.
2 years ago
ohbabydotcom says:
I love you Mabel. What a wonderful story and life. You work is lovely. Thank you so much for sharing a piece of your life with us all.
2 years ago
lorenaferreira says:
I am inspired.
2 years ago
treasurebooth says:
I enjoyed this video very much :) It's wonderful to get lost in sewing--it's almost a meditation for me. Your work is beautiful, thank you for sharing your talents.
2 years ago
valeriephoto says:
Wow! Amazing detail! This must take so much patience.
2 years ago
jungledread says:
Traditions carry so much more of a story & soul than some cheap mass-produced thing :)
2 years ago
JanJat says:
Amazing story! Thank you so much for sharing your talent, vision and creativity. This story makes me think about the incredible, strong women in my family who each loved to create in their own way.
2 years ago
MelsMunchies says:
Thank you for this wonderful story- Visiting ANAF right now.
2 years ago
daydreamjewels says:
Mabel your work is awesome!!! Lovely story, thanks for sharing :)
2 years ago
adessojewelry says:
Mabel: outstanding artist! Mabel Pike gives us hope that we will all be crafting for a long time to come. Tara Young, Two Dark Birds and JuliaPott (and others who made this): congratulations on putting together this beautiful and masterful video!
2 years ago
Asianexpressions says:
Wonderful story and lovely work!
2 years ago
vintagejane says:
BEAUTIFUL!
2 years ago
outofline says:
I love this, beautiful work. What a talent!
2 years ago
baconsquarefarm says:
Beautiful, beautiful workmanship, thanks for sharing your passion for creating and losing yourself in the work. Enjoyed the video and a bit of history, thanks for sharing.
2 years ago
jennyleefowler says:
I was just talking with a friend the other day about how the things that are perceived as "modern" often have wonderfully deep roots and that's why they resonate with us so. This resonates with me so. Thank you for this.
2 years ago
Agent137 says:
What a amazing handmade portrait.
2 years ago
5orangepotatoes says:
AMAZING!!!! Mabel, you are so inspiring.
2 years ago
BeaumontStudio says:
What a lovely Portrait! It's also great to see Etsians carrying on the tradition of tanning hides and hand sewing them! Glad to see PahanaHides in the related items!
2 years ago
karenmeyers says:
what a touching story, I love it.
2 years ago
LANYARDLADY says:
The beauty and spirit of her work touches my heart. Thanks for sharing Mabel's story.
2 years ago
oldnorthstate says:
truly gorgeous beadwork!
2 years ago
Shamanwoman says:
An amazing woman. A true inspiration!
2 years ago
ClothandPatina says:
What an amazing story! I was so taken I watched the video twice. You can just feel her passion for her work as she is telling her story. So touching and beautiful...thanks so much for sharing.
2 years ago
AsLuckWouldHaveIt says:
Mabel is very inspiring & talented!
2 years ago
SmoochyBabyDesign says:
What a beautiful and inspiring story! Thank you for sharing this with us!
2 years ago
AldenArts says:
What a beautiful and creative soul!
2 years ago
efratdeutsch says:
Thank you so much for sharing your story. I really enjoy this video and I wish it was longer :) Beautiful work, Efrat
2 years ago
hattieshouse says:
Mabel I would love nothing more than to sit with you over a cup of tea, watch you create, and listen to your stories of wisdom. Alaska is such a magical place and you are part of the magic! Thank you for sharing your story.
2 years ago
brinnet says:
Loved this video. It was nice to see someone who wasn't exclusively an Etsy seller featured. You know I love Etsy, but it really makes me believe that Etsy is in it for the art (and the heart).
2 years ago
jackandjillwedding says:
Mabel, you are an inspiration...and your work is beautiful. There is such a history and passion behind it. Thanks for sharing!
2 years ago
Paper2Roses says:
Yes, an inspirational story, indeed. Thanks for sharing!♥
2 years ago
accentonvintage says:
Your beading is beautiful. Your work is a tribute to your heritage!
2 years ago
lemondropbay says:
Your work is amazing! You truely are a talent to behold...how lucky are we to know of you and share in your gift.
2 years ago
staceyrebecca says:
Oh! Tara! I love her! & what an amazing experience for you, too! Beautiful! Too many exclamation points! Hooray!
2 years ago
knottyandnyce says:
Great story Mabel! Your work is absolutely beautiful!
2 years ago
estilopronta says:
She is so adorable. I really admire her. Thanks for sharing this inspiring post. Maru
2 years ago
lilpeachcookie says:
Her work is just too gorgeous, I can't get over how lovely it is! I am also native, but I can't make anything as beautiful as that, such a lovely gift she has!
2 years ago
FrancesPhotography says:
Oh these are gorgeous - amazing that she has been doing this all of her life! What a passion and what a lovely lady! I would love to purchase some of the mocassins!
2 years ago
AmberGypsySky says:
Those Mocc's look so warm and toasty!
2 years ago
bedbuggs says:
Beautiful!!! Thanks so much for sharing! ;)
2 years ago
buttonarcade says:
Gunalchéesh, Etsy!♥ Elders like Mabel are the reason I am a crafter today.
2 years ago
itbaus says:
You are so beautiful and your eyes so deep, sharp and full of passion. I want to be like you!
2 years ago
redemptionart says:
What a beautiful interview and fine work. She reminds me of my Hawaiian Tutu, grandmother. Love the beautiful features! Aloha
2 years ago
Meliscraft says:
They are amazing..The culture is very important..We must keep them..
2 years ago
LittleWrenPottery says:
Beautiful work, fabulous story its important to keep traditional crafts going otherwise they just get lost in time.
2 years ago
beliz82 says:
Amazing video and love ,love and love the story and your work !!! Wish i could be like you when i will be 91. Thank you very much for sharing !!!
2 years ago
AnnaDenise says:
Great video. What an inspiring woman. So sharp, funny, ant talented. I hope I grow old like that. She reminds me of my grandmother, who makes handmade sewn Christmas cards for all her children and 34 grandchildren. She starts somewhere in the summer to get them all done. It always reminds me of what handmade's really about. About showing your love for people by the attention that someone paid to make a beautiful design.
2 years ago
sassefrass says:
handcrafted Native wares = Priceless Treasures! I absolutely love this article, but not as much as I love those tan mocassin boots :))
2 years ago
PixiePod says:
How wonderful! It is such a natural talent, hope the skills never die and get passed from generation to generation. My Nana taught me a lot of my hand skills, I am so grateful, they keep me sane! xx
2 years ago
DSepulveda says:
Thanks so much for sharing, I agree with her so much when she explains how she feels about her craft and about having to part with one of her creations. Thanks again, very inspirational.
2 years ago
CenteredClayWorks says:
What a wonderful story - it's so good to hear about people passing their skills to the next generation. And it's inspiring to see that next generation enthused about it. We visited a wonderful little Indian museum between Denver and Estes Park that was loaded down with Indian beadwork. I encourage anyone in the area to visit there.
2 years ago
maggiesraggedyinn says:
I would love to sit with this lady and enjoy a cup of tea and conversation. She is a woman with so many stories to tell and her passion is amazing. What a role model for us who strive to create!
2 years ago
iluxo says:
A beautiful and intriguing story. Wish I could find her work somewhere online to purchase :)
2 years ago
RedorGrayArt says:
oh Mabel your work is just so rich and beautiful and the feature was very touching thank you
2 years ago
allisonstrine says:
What a beautifully created story! The way the portrait was shot and edited is a perfect complement to Mabel's beading history.
2 years ago
doveandflower says:
I'm putting a pair of Mabel's moccasins on the top of my wish list. Such a beautiful lady and a beautiful little short.
2 years ago
chickfamilyink says:
glad to see your style back. I really missed the opening music.
2 years ago
CarlasFunkyArt says:
How inspirational, and the beading is beautiful! Great story!
2 years ago
artofjane says:
How beautiful this all is!
2 years ago
FranniesHeart says:
Beautiful work. I love this inspirational story.
2 years ago
TerraRed says:
Ohh!!! wonderful gorgeous detail work. it seem so much care has been put into it. Love it!
2 years ago
jbeaudet says:
Gorgeous work Mabel! This is the best article I've seen on here since I've been a member. Truly inspiring, thanks Tara!
2 years ago
grannysthimble says:
Mabel, you are an inspiration to all. Thank you for sharing you beautiful work.
2 years ago
tfamily5 says:
Beautiful, simply lovley person. Good luck to you!
2 years ago
marysworkshop says:
Thank you Etsy for sharing Mabel's story with us. You have touched many hearts today!
2 years ago
pinkbijou says:
Amazing!
2 years ago
RomanceCatsAndWhimsy says:
Gorgeous work and such an inspiring woman. Great post!
2 years ago
TheVintageDesignShop says:
Thank you for sharing Mabel Pike's story and the lovely beadwork of the Tlingit. :)
2 years ago
loveineverything says:
Beautiful! Very inspiring.
2 years ago
SuesCraft says:
Beautiful :)
2 years ago
mazedasastoat says:
Mabel, you're an inspiration, & I hope you've passed on your skills to later generations. I was taught woodworking by my Grandfather, starting when I was so small I had to stand on a lemonade crate to reach the workbench... I sure hope I'm still going strong when I'm 91!
2 years ago
extase says:
what a wonderful portrait! beautiful work by a lovely and inspiring woman.
2 years ago
DalkullanJewelry says:
Lovely film, and such beautiful work! That would be great if Mabel would open an Etsy shop!
2 years ago
FlowerGlassArt says:
A great video. It shows the passion which Mabel gives into her works. Loved it!
2 years ago
momomadeit says:
truly wonderful story... too bad more heritage isn't passed down this way. Thank you for sharing your story!
2 years ago
pillowfactory says:
i just lose myself in it.. this is so beautiful, thank you!
2 years ago
DebsWhimsicalDesigns says:
Such a fantastic story - I wanted to hear more! Her work is truly an art!
2 years ago
Sofix says:
wow. this is amazing work! I hope you doing good. Good luck.
2 years ago
MissHildebrandt says:
You know, sometimes these videos give me the warm little willies...THIS was one of them. Thank you Mabel Pike for doing what you do! ~C.L. Hildebrandt
2 years ago
AnnieofBlueGables says:
Did all her articles sell after this video? I tried to purchase a pair and cannot find her ANYWHERE on this site.
2 years ago
Tsoniki says:
Thank you for sharing this! I love being able to see Native elders tell their stories. To the previous poster looking to buy - you can buy her things through the Heritage Center online shop.
2 years ago
maclancy says:
Mabel you are AMAZING! thanks for the article Tara!
2 years ago
genisepark says:
I want to be doing what I love when I am 91 too. Such an inspiration. I too was passed along some gifts of creating. Beautiful work.
2 years ago
Donauluft says:
So heartwarming! this is what I call creative flow! Thanks for sharing this wonderful portrait!
2 years ago
FoxAndClover says:
Thank you for showing us your beautiful Tlingit craftwork Mabel. Big respect to you. I would love to see more traditional and native work on Etsy. Good luck and best wishes!
2 years ago
HazelHoney says:
I love that something so simple makes her days complete. I want to go bead now!
2 years ago
laurastark says:
Thank you for sharing this beautiful story. I think it is so important that we see these traditions that might be lost. It's also great to hear the voice of an elder artisan. Thanks!
2 years ago
TheLittleRagamuffin says:
Mabel's moccasins are breathtaking. Thank you for sharing Ms. Pike and her art with us!
2 years ago
designlab443 says:
Wonderful video, thank you for sharing your spirit.
2 years ago
BlkSheepProductions says:
Thank you Mabel for being a true artisan and thank you Etsy for promoting her work. We really appreciate being able to learn about all of the different people that access this site.
2 years ago
frommylifetoyours says:
Beautiful work . You can tell she loves what she makes.
2 years ago
FoundVintageStyle says:
This must be what keeps her so young- FANTASTIC! Very, very inspiring. My grandmother painted her whole adult life- I hope to be able to be creative forever as well. Thank you for the lovely portrait of this talented, remarkable woman.
2 years ago
handmaderomance says:
gorgeous! i hope im still (capable of) creating at 91. thank you mabel for sharing your story with us. heres to getting lost in creative work : )
2 years ago
Portraitss says:
A very beautiful story and moccasins also. Portraits
2 years ago
AutumnLeavesJewelry says:
Eyak clan I love you!!! By far this is etsy's classiest blog entry!!!
2 years ago
thetailorsstories says:
Really really great article. Thank you so much for sharing with us.
2 years ago
weirdwolf says:
Thank you for all the wonderful comments! I am so thankful I had the opportunity to meet Mabel and work with the folks at the Alaska Native Arts Foundation. Presently Mabel does not have an Etsy shop because she doesn't own a computer! But you can find her work and other Native made work at alaskanativearts.org. And you can search Etsy for Native American work as well...
2 years ago
irisbiran says:
So beautiful and exciting to explore an art& culture that's far away from me, and it's also gives me a king of warmth to see Mabel creating it.
2 years ago
Parachute425 says:
Mabel - you're an inspiration! Again proving, the old ways are the best ways. Peace to you.
2 years ago
camilita says:
I was so inspired by Mebel!!! Not only the story behind her creations, but the fact that she, herself told us about it. I want to be like her when I get to be her age. It's so nice that you (Etsy) will bring such a beautiful story of some one that doesn't even have an Etsy shop ! Good for you Etsy!
2 years ago
camilita says:
Sorry....typo...Mabel !
2 years ago
WorldStudio says:
Beautiful, thank you!
2 years ago
shop1848 says:
Gorgeous work!
2 years ago
MariesFiber says:
Wonderful article, very creative and clever. Thank you!
2 years ago
TheScarletSageTree says:
I'm so glad I stumbled on this precious article - Mabel, your work is so very beautiful, and what makes it even more lovely is the heritage it's steeped in - an art that you learned from your grandma, and that you too are sharing with newer generations...heartwarming :) You must start an Etsy shop if you haven't already! May you continue to create, inspire, shine!
2 years ago
CandleSeries says:
Beautiful piece of art! Very inspiring for me. Wishing her got good health, so she can create more and more beautiful works. Cheers! (^^)_v
2 years ago
ZULYA says:
Perfect job!
2 years ago
Danideng says:
So beautiful work!! thanks a lot !
2 years ago
unflappableproducts says:
What a beautiful person Mabel is and what a wonderful story - I am starting to save up for a pair of those moccasins! I can't even imagine owning something made with that kind of skill and passion!
2 years ago
nfractal says:
I loved the video so beautiful thank you!
2 years ago
EmmaLamb says:
Wonderful portrait, one of my favourites... Thank you... :)
2 years ago
angeliqueshome says:
I really love your work Mabel, I enjoy the traditional & non traditional work from my native New Zealand I can see similarties. This is how I would like to be when I am 90!!!
2 years ago
OliveLongstocking says:
Mabel. you truly are a gem and an inspiration ! I would love to learn your craft. May you continue to do what you love.
2 years ago
jill2day says:
thank you Mabel.
2 years ago
GreenCleanToys says:
Mabel has a beautiful spirit! Thank you for sharing! LOVE your work!
2 years ago
gigantour says:
her life is expressed through her work and Mabel's work is beautiful. Mabel shows that we are capable of so much at every age. I too hate to part with finished pieces.
2 years ago
1900sBride says:
Mabel I enjoyed your feature so much. When I was a little girl and I am 60 now..my grandparents brought back seal skin beaded moccassins from a vacation and I'm thinking it was Alaska. I remember I thought they looked like animals because they used real animal fur on them, but they kept them at the side of their bed and used them every morning when walking on the cold floors. Thank you for bringing back a memory for me and your work is so beautiful and now I see why they brought home moccassins as a useful gift from Alaska...
2 years ago
ThrowbackReflections says:
Thank you for showing your lovely crafts. You remind me of my grandma. You a such a sweet lady ! So beautiful.
2 years ago
MysticalRaindrops says:
Beautiful work.
2 years ago
SpiritedWoodland says:
Love this piece - I made sure to share. Beyond inspiring... I also watched several times...
2 years ago
stacymyjane says:
Wonderful, heartwarming piece! Inspiring and I love Mabel's passion! She reminds me SO much of my grandmother, looks like her too! Thanks so much for sharing this and reminding us that we need to preserve our culture!
2 years ago
bertazimdars says:
On this snowy day in Minnesota, you and your story have made my heart smile. Thank you for your work.
2 years ago
HihloStudio says:
I'm so glad I saw this today. It really warmed my heart to see Mabel's story. She is such an inspiraiton.
2 years ago
Patti Trostle from PattiTrostle says:
Wonderful to see this!
1 year ago
Megan Morris from MadebyMegShop says:
Thank you for bringing this back and sharing this beautiful woman and her work with those of us who may have missed it the first time around. My thoughts and prayers are with this wonderful woman's family.
1 year ago
Anna Woehling from JewelsByAnna says:
That's is absolutely amazing. I want a pair of those moccasins! And she is 91! God bless her
1 year ago
mazedasastoat from mazedasastoat says:
Mabel was a truly inspiring lady, she will be sorely missed.
1 year ago
bedouin from bedouin says:
this is a heartwarming feature ~ her quality shines in both spirit and craft
1 year ago
iammie from iammie says:
You're so cute as well as your work and story! :)
1 year ago
Chelsea Palmer from DirtyRedBandanna says:
I love this beautiful tender story. Thank you.
1 year ago
Linzee from lkmccray says:
Oh, to be losing yourself in the work you love at age 91! What a wonderful film about a person who is a role model on many levels. Thank you for reminding us of Mabel.
1 year ago
accentonvintage from accentonvintage says:
Wonderful lady with incredible talent! Beautiful work!
1 year ago
Cynthia from PlumeandPetals says:
What a wonderful story! It is truly a heart warming feature.
1 year ago
Jennifer Beaudet from JBeaudetStudios says:
Gorgeous work Mabel! This is the best article I've seen on here since I've been a member. Truly inspiring, thanks Tara! This is the same post I posted a year ago but it's still true!:)
1 year ago
RetroRevivalBoutique from RetroRevivalBoutique says:
Such beautiful work, and such a beautiful tradition too!
1 year ago
Margherita from Arthings says:
very sad notice.. Thank you Mabel Pike for your beautiful works!
1 year ago
Spontaneous Reality from spontaneousreality says:
Such precious creations from a beautiful soul, thanks for sharing this gem!
1 year ago
Matejka Max from NattyMatty says:
Eternal artwork!!!
1 year ago
BigBadBuddha from BigBadBuddha says:
Passion is ageless
1 year ago
liddy sopretty from liddysopretty says:
Inspiring
1 year ago
Sylvie Liv from SylvieLiv says:
So neat. And so much patience you must have to do such intricate work all the time!
1 year ago
Celena McMahon from Rembrandtrocks says:
How incredibly Beautiful-We MISS you already Mabel! I even love your precious Name as it is a reminder of worlds past and precious. My own Grandpa lived til he was 95- which is a long time and he too was an artist and did waddling on Wood! Love the unique article. We miss you Mabel may your work carry on!! Rembrandtrocks! Rembrandtrocks!
1 year ago
funnydays from funnydays says:
Wonderful article and work!
1 year ago
Kayla Jurgens from waterandroots says:
I am Tlingit and was extremely proud when this was posted a year ago. Everyone in the Alaskan community are so sad we lost someone with such knowledge. She taught many!
1 year ago
Handmadeby Vanda from madebyVanda says:
Wonderful :)
1 year ago
Rachelle from ahiparagirl says:
She reminds me of my grandmother who worked with her hands as well. I am very sad to hear of her loss, our loss (the world) but also inspired that she made an impact and grateful it was captured for the world to see. Her life was a gift she used wisely. Thank God for women like Mabel. x
1 year ago
Unique Fabric Gifts from uniquefabricgifts says:
Very inspiring and beautiful video and article!
1 year ago
Amber from BambuEarth says:
♥♥♥
1 year ago
cousinpatty from cousinpatty says:
How wonderful! What a talented lady and I do understand how she hates to part with her creations. I think I put a little piece of myself into every one I make as well. Happy Beading Mabel!
1 year ago
Dotty Walker from SewThoughtfulBlanket says:
Love all the details. You're terrific, Mabel!
1 year ago
Fauzia from mehndiart09 says:
Sad to hear she passed away. How wonderful that she shared her talent with so many.
1 year ago
Tom's Grossmami from tomsgrossmami says:
Beautiful works!
1 year ago
brainfart says:
Beautiful Mable ! I am so proud of my heritage ! I am Northern Mountain Maidu.Her voice and speech pattern reminded me of my late Mom . Her silver hair and the picture of her and husband on the wall my dad was navy. Her beautiful dark eyes . I never met Mable but I fell she was a very wise Elder, and also a true artist . Lovely beading , My heart goes out to her family and friends may peace be with you ! Remember we are all connected . Good Bye Mable !
1 year ago
Sarah Schneider from Quelquepart says:
What a beautiful art! I would love to have that much patience to complete such masterpieces.
1 year ago
Levi Emerson from gypsumrose says:
gorgeous! inspiring story, i loved it :) the deep history of her craft leaves me in awe <3
1 year ago
Kimm Alfonso from kimmchi says:
oh, so moved by this, she reminds me of every woman who has taught me how to make things with my hands for the past 37 years, the focus, passion and love is all there! I'm so sorry for her passing.
1 year ago
Sara Brazil from SararaVintage says:
This touched my heart and as a person of Native heritage, I am so happy to see this etsy feature. I feel her work and place in her culture will be continued through the generations she taught and inspired just like those before her. Her hands were amazing to watch, great video!
1 year ago
Jana from bhangtiez says:
Lovely story............thank u so much for sharing it with us!
1 year ago
Patti from cabinwindows says:
I wish her a safe journey to the other side..her beadwork is amazing..especially love the mocs with the shooting star flowers on them Chi Miigwech (many thanks) for this blog about such an amazing elder
1 year ago
Anita from RollingHillsVintage says:
Thank you so much for sharing this touching story. What a beautiful person!
1 year ago
Celine from AlternativeJournals says:
She is great :)
1 year ago
Ira from Apseed says:
It inspired me very much! And It's truly sad to her she passed away.
1 year ago
Janine from MomsantiquesNthings says:
My thoughts and prayers go out to Mabel's family for their loss, her passion for her talent are clearly seen in the detail and beauty of her work, she was and still is an inspiration for many.
1 year ago
Karynlee Awianidv Berstecher from SoulfulStuff says:
Wado/sgi (thank you in Cherokee) for being such a bright light and quiet inspiration to us all, Mabel! Tohidv (peace) and prayers to Mabel's family and friends....she will live on in your love and her breathtakingly beautiful work! Wado to ETSY for taking the time to re-post this....the elders are a precious gift to us and we must continue to re-member all the wisdom they have shared.
1 year ago
Carolyn S. Miller from AutumnLeavesJewelry says:
sad news, but her amazing story will live on...
1 year ago
Lola from sewlola says:
Beautiful story and work. Very inspiring!
1 year ago
Aneta from dekoprojects says:
Wonderful article. Thanks to Twitter I am here. I was curious about the person and now I am suprised. The age doesn't matter. But I think we, people of civilisation, are destined to forget a big part our culture. History already shows it.
1 year ago
Jenny from TheFeltingPenguin says:
Touching and uplifting ... thank you for sharing your story Mabel.
1 year ago
SkyBlueAngel says:
wow, leaves me breathless! So inspirational...
1 year ago
Norajuku from NORAJUKU says:
Awesome! Mabel was a beautiful woman & a true inspiration.
1 year ago
Garry Garrison from BohemianCowboy says:
bless her heart and soul her talents and knowledge will be missed
1 year ago
Sarah from CopperheadCreations says:
This is beautiful. What a cool woman.
1 year ago
Lyndsay Kotalik says:
Mabel made my mother's seal skin slippers almost 30 years ago. The bottoms were replaced with cow hide about ten years ago but with almost daily wear they are nearly always complimented. Mine are 15 years old and nearly perfect. Mabel also volunteered in Anchorage schools and taught me bead embroidery in mr. Little's 3rd grade class. I think of her almost daily (my feet get cold a lot) she will be missed terribly.
1 year ago
vocantos@hotmail.com vero says:
cuanto amor,DIOS LA TENGA EN SU GLORIA
1 year ago
DeLuka from DeLuka says:
Peace be with her. I loved her shop and always wanted a pair of her moccasins. I pray that her talent and cultural heritage has spread among her peers and will live on.
1 year ago
ezliving from ezliving says:
So beautiful! and thank you! for showing us your lovely work crafts!
1 year ago
cindy santos from akinto says:
she is an amazing woman, her passion for her craft is very inspiring and worth emulating!
1 year ago
Zane Saracene from Zalavintage says:
Mabel leaves us with her treasures and spirit... makes me sad to realize just how much we are losing as a society when we waste our dollars on disposable fashion that someone says is what you should wear right now and then we just toss at the end of the season because it's made so poorly and look what we could be owning instead, living history and gorgeous comfort!
1 year ago
hana kratochvil from HanaKratochvil says:
Touching and uplifting. Thank you so much for sharing this touching story. HK
1 year ago
Shannon L Talton from ArtNSilk says:
My grandmothers were both seamstresses and this makes me think of them. I remember how painful their old hands looked when the sewed. I wonder what happened to Gma M's treadle singer sewing machine.
1 year ago