Norma Jean Brooks
njb Basket of Jewels
Norma Brooks of njb Basket of Jewels is a folk artist and versatile designer who creates jewelry, baskets and rugs. Norma started sewing when she was very young and made all of her clothes. She became an accomplished seamstress by the age of 12, where she created bridal dresses and altered clothing for friends, family and many of the locals where she lived. Her love for art and passion for creativity led her to design fine jewelry pieces after retirement as a dental hygienist. While working with beads, metals, stones and glass, she decided to expand her creations by incorporating the use of fabric. The fabric art she creates consists of baskets and rag rugs while using coiling, weaving and crocheting techniques. All of her jewelry, baskets, and rugs are one-of-a-kind, boasting of rich and vibrant colors, unique patterns, and mixed textures. Norma loves to upcycle different objects she finds by using them as embellishments to her creations. She’s constantly on a mission to create new methods to different pieces that are pleasing to the eye.
Her work has been shown at many craft shows/festival/bazaars, including Annmarie Gardens, Chevy Chase Women Club, Takoma Park Jazz Festival, and the Potomac Fiber Arts Gallery at the Torpedo Factory in Old Town, Alexandra. Look for Norma’s work at the Takoma Park Folk Festival.
