Betty Maney (Eastern Band Cherokee) of the Long Hair Clan is one of the most acclaimed Cherokee artisans still working today. A third generation white oak and river cane weaver, Maney’s pottery and beadwork, along with her baskets, have also won numerous awards and ribbons. Her grandmother, Annie Powell Welch, and mother, Geraline Walkingstick, introduced her to the Cherokee artisan world; but Maney is largely self-taught and continues to expand her skills into the contemporary realm of fashion. Since the 1990’s, Maney’s work has consistently been featured in major museum and university exhibits and collections, publications, and on radio and television programs across the United States and the world. She has led workshops all over the southeast and is dedicated to teaching other emerging Cherokee artists. She has a passion for preserving culture, tradition, and technique through the sharing of her work and always expanding her skills.
Maney is currently designing a line of beaded accessories for men. She lives in the Big Cove Community of Cherokee, NC.
