Inspired by Dots: My Journey from Comic Books to Beadwork.

Dorothy Dot

Growing up, the magic of storytelling was handed to me in unexpected ways. I still remember those summers when my dad’s cousin, who owned a drugstore that doubled as a comic book haven, would share boxes of comics with my sisters and me. While my sisters eagerly dived into the adventures of Green Lantern and Archie, I was mesmerized by one hero in particular—Dorothy Dot.

Dorothy Dot wasn’t your typical comic book character. She had an infectious love for dots and wasn’t afraid to put them on everything, no matter what anyone said. That fearless passion resonated with me. In her world, the smallest detail—a simple dot—became a statement of identity and creativity. As I grew older, this memory would become the cornerstone of my artistic journey.

My heritage runs deep. As an enrolled Shivwits member of the Paiute Indian Tribe of Utah, I have been immersed in cultural traditions from a very young age. I grew up in St. George and the San Carlos Apache Reservation, dancing at powwows since I was five. These events weren’t merely dances; they were vibrant gatherings of community, connection, and storytelling. This cultural tapestry later influenced every bead I laid down in my work.

Today, my beadwork is a blend of that childhood wonder and my lived heritage. Every medallion, handbag, or design I create carries a single, powerful element—a dot. For me, each dot is more than just decoration; it’s a piece of my history and a symbol of the joy that Dorothy Dot instilled in me all those years ago. Whether arranged in meticulous patterns or scattered, every dot speaks to the resilience of following your passion without compromise.

I still follow the powwow trail, dancing and crafting with the same enthusiasm I felt as a child, fueled by the spirit of Dorothy Dot. My art is a celebration of what I love—an invitation for you to embrace your passions, no matter what anyone says. Through my beadwork, I hope every dot inspires you to find and follow your own creative path.

Thank you for joining me on this journey. I invite you to explore my work, share in my story, and discover the beauty that lies in the simple, brave act of doing what you love.

Keep shining—one dot at a time.