wi_mburns_studio_74

Mary Burns, weaver.
Ancestral Women Woven Portraits: handwoven jacquard portraits. Partial Exhibition at the Madeline Island Historical Museum on Madeline Island, Wisconsin (Lake Superior, WI).
Harriet Theresa (LaFernier) Balber - Red Cliff Band of Lake Superior Chippewa.
31″ x 42″

CVA's booklet (Wausau, WI):
Born into the Maang (Loon) Clan in 1927 to James and Josephine (Gurnoe) LaFernier, Harriet was raised with eight siblings. She attended Haskell Indian School and graduated from Bayfield High School. Her early educational experiences, the good and the bad, would have the greatest impact on her life. She often spoke of her love of learning and how it helped to support and change her worldviews. Harriet took great and humble pride in the educational achievements of her ten children, all of whom established careers in the areas of Law, Medicine, Education and Human and Social Services.Harriet shared her truth, honesty, strength, humility, wisdom, bravery and respect. She exuded love and compassion for others and exemplified how one could turn their personal challenges into positive change. She became a frequent speaker and presenter at regional and national conferences for organizations that supported the work of empowering American Indians.Harriet strongly believed that an individual was their own best advocate in determining their well-being. It was that belief combined with her convictions and values that gave her the strength to leave an unhealthy marriage at a time when most women of her time would not have had the courage to do so. Alone, and as a mother of ten children, she became the primary caregiver of her family, supporting her children while working full-time.Harriet helped many women struggling with family and domestic issues. She continued to address these issues when she first became a Community Advocate, and later when she was appointed as a Tribal Judge for her tribe. Although she was reserved in speech and demeanor, she learned to speak both with authority and compassion.Harriet had a hearty laugh and loved spending time with her large family and friends. Her motto was: “Whatever it takes to strengthen your faith in yourself – you need to do it!”Harriet’s love and compassion for others combined with her generous spirit inspired the design for this weaving.

Mary wanted to portray Harriet’s love of family, community, and life into this smiling portrait. Harriet loved Ojibwe floral patterns and beadwork, and thus Mary embellished this weaving with a floral pattern

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