The first thing you notice about today’s featured artist is the shop name….HowlingCaterpillars was just quirky enough that I had to look further!  I was not disappointed when a found a shop full of wonders that I have rarely seen, each unique in its own way and combining the ancient with the modern.

  I grew up knowing them as Dream Catchers, but Brenda of HowlingCaterpillars refers to them as Dream Webs out of respect for the fact that she is not Native American but wishes to honor their culture and their beliefs.  She learned to make her webs started with her Aunt who is an honorary Navajo.  Brenda’s aunt taught her the basics of wrapping hoops and tying the webs, but the designs can only come from an artist’s heart.  Each one is unique and she has even created webs to celebrate life events such as a new baby and Mardi Gras…basically combining an ancient tradition with modern life!

Not only does this talented lady from Massachusetts create amazing webs, but this talented mother also makes jewelry with a definite Native American flair that again honors a culture that she obviously deeply respects.  Each piece is unique as it is, but Brenda is also happy to talk to customers about special orders and requests.

As if these things aren’t enough, you have to see her Zodiac Bottles which was new to me.  Each tiny bottle comes complete with an explanation of your sign as well as the gemstones that are included in the bottles.  Her Charm Bottles are meant to build up your communication with the ArchAngels, which again was a new one on me!

HowlingCaterpillars Artfire shop is definitely a unique stop and a ton of fun to poke through.  You can learn more about this talented lady by checking out her blog and get to see her wonderful sense of humor through her second blog.