Beading For The Soul Questions And Answers with Deborah Cannarella

The idea grew out of a conversation with Linda Ligon, the founder and former publisher of Interweave Press. Linda was interested in developing a book that offered a range of projects for sacred beadwork.

As I began to explore the idea, I discovered that beads and beadwork have had deep spiritual significance in many cultures throughout history.

So I thought it would be interesting to show some traditional work alongside the work of modern-day designers - to show how the traditions continue, even when the artists themselves aren't aware of the strong connection.

I researched and interviewed more than fifty beadwork designers whose work has deep spiritual and personal meaning. Twenty-three created projects for the book - and many others have pieces in the artists' gallery of work.