Beads of Hope: Free Juneteenth Jewelry-Making Experience

In honor of Juneteenth, Beads of Hope is a community-based jewelry-making experience hosted by NB Makes designed to educate all participants on the impact of trade beads in Black history and celebrate hope and freedom. This event is presented in partnership with the City of Dallas Office of Arts and Culture and in collaboration with Make Space, featuring activities from fellow Black makers Mosaic Maker's Collective.

Did you know that during the African slave trade, trade beads were used to barter for people? That means jewelry was actually used to oppress instead of bring joy, as it does today. A central part of NB Makes artwork is reflecting on this truth and taking opportunities to embed joy and intention into every jewelry event.

✦ Create your own jewelry piece from handmade ceramic beads inspired by the African Diaspora

✦ Photograph your piece and capture your intention

✦ Experience the joy and freedom of creation within the Black community with local Black makers. See our lineup of featured artists below.

✦ NB Makse is supported in part by City of Dallas Office of Arts and Culture

✦ Our 28 community donors that ensured this event remained completely free to the public

✦ Make Space