Ke’Adornments | Auri Banai
Several years ago I caught myself trying to start a waistbead side hustle and although I was being soooo genuine…making waistbeads en masse isn’t my calling. It’s not my purpose as much as I love pouring into the cups of the divine feminine I so graciously have met in my life. I have the inclination that I still can just, customs -made to order-
I still want to I just feel it’s something not authentic about making waistbeads in bulk for people to buy, with no conscious thought (not thinking about color magic, symbolism etc). It just feels…like whoring a spiritual tool for aesthetics other than glamour magick. 💃🏾✨
I feel there should be more intention in it. At least I knew that for myself. Now don’t get me wrong I’ll still support my Soulaan and Afrikan Sistah if I feel I need to be adorned by someone else. I just bought some from a Sistah at the event 🩷
I just won’t be doing it myself. Adorning Huemans is still something i genuinely want to do…I just gotta be real with where I’m coming from. 🤷🏾♀️
Being a vendor, a black woman creative, still in the shackles of capitalism- I hold myself back thinking just because someone else is doing something I can’t. Jewelry making is an art and I am an artist 🎨👩🏾🎨! My friends and peers may do it, beautiful pieces at that, it doesn’t take away from my own flavor, my own taste of creativity when it comes to jewelry making.
I love beading and wire wrapping and making earrings. Period. Makes me feel like a tinker fairy 🧚🏾♂️with the job of making people feel pretty and happy and confident in their accessories. Bravery in their expression. I want to be able to help others express themselves through my own expression….
Did any of that make sense? Cause I’m just talking 🤔
Anyways I make
-jewelry (beaded and wire wrapped)
-Digital Art and Collages
-Sketching
-painting
-DIY and anything I can get my hands on. Check out my link in the bio
Creating jewelry and art has been a transformative experience for me, much like it has been for Auri Banai. When I first started making beaded accessories, I quickly realized how important intention and symbolism are in crafting pieces that resonate on a deeper level. Like Auri expresses, mass-producing waistbeads without conscious thought feels disconnected from the spiritual energy that these items can hold. For me, each bead and wire wrap carries a story, a personal energy infused during the creation process. I focus on custom orders that allow me to collaborate with clients about their personal meanings and preferences, whether incorporating symbolic colors, birthstones, or spiritual elements. This elevates the accessory from mere decoration to a glamour magick talisman — a powerfully expressive piece. Auri’s reflection on the challenges of being a Black woman creative navigating capitalism really struck a chord. I’ve felt the tension between commercial demands and authentic artistry, but like her, I’ve learned that embracing my unique style and voice as an artist brings fulfillment that outshines competition. It’s not about following trends but creating with bravery and confidence that inspires others to express their own identity. Beyond jewelry, I also love exploring art forms like digital collages and painting, which allows me to experiment with colors and themes that complement my jewelry work. Sharing this multifaceted creativity creates a holistic experience for both me and those who enjoy my art. Supporting fellow creators and engaging in meaningful conversations within artistic communities enriches my creative process and personal growth. Whether it’s through handmade jewelry symbolism or visual art, this journey is about connecting deeply with one’s self and others in a soulful way. If you're considering launching your own creative venture, I encourage focusing on authenticity, intention, and personal meaning to make your work truly stand out and resonate with those who appreciate artistry with heart.
