A passion for history with an eye toward tomorrow keeps Suzanne Warner beading heirlooms for future generations.

While living in Hawaii in the 1970's, Suzanne was introduced to shellweaving.

"I've been involved in learning and executing different forms of shell and beadweaving ever since," she says.

Holding three degrees from Southern Oregon University in Ashland, bachelors in art and in anthropology and a master's in arts and letters, Suzanne is curator of collections and exhibits at Southern Oregon Historical Society. She has also worked extensively with Native American objects and antiquities.

"I also teach whenever possible. I've taught beading, art history, art appreciation and color theory for the past 20 or so years. I especially like teaching art to children."

Suzanne is hopeful that handwork of all kinds will survive.

"My beadwork is rarely pre-designed and takes quite a long time to complete any one project," she says. "I'm inspired by nature and from the historical objects that I care for as a museum professional. I treat my work as the creation of an heirloom."

Suzanne has participated in numerous juried exhibits and events and was awarded Best Jewelry/Fashion Artist in 2000 and 2002 at the Western Design Conference in Cody, Wyoming.

Her beadwork is available at Big Horn Galleries Cody, Wyoming.