Artwork copyright Elsie Wesley. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission, 2022.

Artwork copyright Elsie Wesley. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission, 2022.

Artwork copyright Elsie Wesley. Photo courtesy of the artist, 1986.

Artwork copyright Elsie Wesley. Photo courtesy of the artist, 1986.

Beaded Dress, 1950-1980

Elsie Wesley
American Yakama (Yakima)

Location: Washington State Arts Commission, Olympia

About the Artwork

Beaded Dress was hand-sewn by Yakama artist Elsie Wesley sometime between 1950 and 1980. It features traditional Yakama Beadwork and hand twirled fringe.

This artwork is part of Beyond Blue Mountains, a collection that was curated by late Tlingit (Native Alaskan) artist Jim Schoppert. It presents the work of Native American artists of diverse heritage, ideas, materials, and styles. The collection takes an in-depth look at the artists’ unique voices and interpretations of tradition.

This artwork was acquired for the State Art Collection in partnership with Washington State Arts Commission.

About the Artist

Elsie Wesley is a Native American artist of Yakama heritage (Central Washington).
Wesley's birthdate and further biographical details are not known to us. If you can add to this information, please contact us at collections@arts.wa.gov.