adobeaart

My name is Bea Martinez, and I am a proud Spirit Lake Dakota artisan currently living in New Mexico. I create handmade dreamcatchers, greeting cards, and other crafted items using beads, sinew, rings, leather, and feathers. My journey as a maker is deeply personal—I learned how to make dreamcatchers from a close Ojibwa friend who has since passed, and I continue this craft in her honor.
Creating has always been a source of peace and fulfillment for me. I mostly taught myself, drawing inspiration from those around me. I prefer a quiet environment when I work, allowing me to focus and put my heart into each piece. My craft is more than just a skill—it’s a way to stay connected to my culture, express myself, and share something meaningful with others.
Art runs deep in my family. My husband, Jerome Martinez, is also a Native artist, and he shares his work through his Etsy shop, Pueblo Prints. We both take pride in creating pieces that reflect our heritage and traditions.
When someone receives one of my handmade items, I want them to feel the love and positive energy I put into it. Everything I make comes from the heart, and I hope it brings joy, calm, and a sense of connection to those who receive it.


About the Indigenous Artisans Collective

Etsy and Nest are proud to support the Indigenous Artisans Collective, the latest cohort within the Etsy Uplift Makers Program, featuring shops from Indigenous makers affiliated with 10 Indigenous groups across the United States and the First Nations of Canada.

Many of the makers practice craft skills that have been inspired by or passed down from family and community mentors. Product collections include meticulously handcrafted home goods, jewelry and other accessories, in honor of the maker’s culture and heritage. Amongst many Indigenous communities, traditional handcraft continues to hold significant cultural value, as well as economic opportunity.

Through the Uplift Makers: Indigenous Artisans Collective, Etsy and Nest are helping to create digital market access and economic opportunities for Indigenous makers while also providing artisans with resources and tools to help run a successful online business. From expert-led digital marketing training, onboarding support, and a custom resource library, the program delivers a comprehensive suite of programming to participants. Additionally, the program addresses key barriers new business owners face such as providing professional photography to capture the creative content needed to showcase their talent and reach new customers in today’s digital era.