Ken Williams Jr.'s Beadwork: Whimsy, Color, and Storytelling at Santa Fe Indian Market
At the Santa Fe Indian Market in New Mexico, collectors flock to the Shiprock gallery to admire the latest beadwork by Ken Williams Jr., who has roots in Northern Arapaho and Cattaraugus Seneca cultures. This summer, the Santa Fe-based artist introduced four new pieces that reflect his playful style and vivid colors. With a family background in beadwork and a degree in museum studies from IAIA, Williams Jr. has created a Yum series that includes food-themed items, such as the 'Sweet Nostalgia' necklace and ice cream-inspired cuffs for 2026. He also seeks rare antique beads and collaborates with fellow artists. His 2026 bag, 'Honoring Our Beautiful Women,' pays tribute to a young Shoshone woman, utilizing traditional materials to celebrate their spirits.
Key facts
- Ken Williams Jr. is a beadwork artist of Northern Arapaho and Cattaraugus Seneca heritage.
- He unveils new pieces every summer during the Santa Fe Indian Market in New Mexico.
- His works are shown at the Shiprock gallery in downtown Santa Fe.
- He studied museum studies at IAIA and took a beadwork class with Teri Greeves.
- His Yum series features beadwork inspired by foods like burgers, donuts, and s'mores.
- His 2026 'Sweet Nostalgia' necklace was inspired by a candy shop called Sweet Factory.
- He created a popcorn bucket piece referencing his father's spilling habit.
- He trades bead colors with other artists; his S'mores necklace includes beads from Teri Greeves.
- His 'Honoring Our Beautiful Women' bag features a portrait of a young Shoshone woman from the Wind River Indian Reservation.
- He uses traditional materials like deerskin and shells to honor their spirits.
Entities
Artists
- Ken Williams Jr.
- Toni Williams
- Teri Greeves
Institutions
- Shiprock gallery
- IAIA
- Santa Fe Indian Market
Locations
- Santa Fe
- New Mexico
- Wind River Indian Reservation