Joyce J. Scott | Crocker Art Museum
  • Joyce J. Scott (American, born 1948),, War, What Is It Good For, Absolutely Nothin', Say It Again, 2022. Peyote stitch, glass beads, thread, 17 x 15 x 1/2 in. Courtesy of Mobilia Gallery. Photograph by Jeff Butler with Aisha Butler, model.
    Joyce J. Scott
    Messages
    January 28, 2024 — June 23, 2024

Consider what it means to be American today through the lens of an extraordinary Black American artist who has pioneered the craft of beaded jewelry as a political weapon and a work of art.

The idea that jewelry can be at once beautiful and confrontational may seem like a paradox, but Joyce J. Scott, the “Queen of Beadwork" from Baltimore, makes it so. At once joyful and satirical, each piece is a unique sculpture that tells a story or offers a comment about the challenges of everyday life. Joyce J. Scott: Messages invites museum visitors to think about what it means to be American today through the lens of an extraordinary Black American artist who has pioneered the craft of beaded jewelry as a political weapon and a work of art. Organized by Mobilia Gallery, this exhibition presents 35 beaded objects expressing contemporary issues and concepts.

ArtMix

Check out Sacramento's favorite after hours pARTy bursting with live performances, DJed music, festive food and drinks, creative artmaking, and so much more!

Learn More

Current Exhibitions

Learn more

Kids + Family

The Crocker invites families to think of the Museum as a place to learn, play, and grow.

Learn More