Born and raised in Savannah, Mary Ann Dudley’s art isn’t hung on frames in gallery walls, but her esthetic and beautiful work is truly unique. 

“I started beading because a dear lifelong friend of mine, Patsy Buccy, opened Bucci Beads in the Starland District when it was first revitalized in 2004. She is a bead artist and encouraged me to begin beading,” began Mary Ann. “ I started bead weaving then and continue until today. I taught classes at Bucci Beads and helped in the store until it closed in 2009.”

Mary Ann has created a number of purses, baby shoes, and jewelry that incorporates objects with sentimental value. She often attends national bead retreats and has studied under many well-known beading artists. 

“I am a member of the Dallas Bead Society and the Beadworkers Guild. I was also a member of the Coastal Bead Society. My favorite bead technique is bead embroidery,” she explained. 

Mary Ann noted that she finds solace and peace in beading and truly enjoys gifting pieces that she knows will be treasured for years to come. 

“I like learning new bead weaving techniques and recently added beading on a loom to my skill set,” added Mary Ann. “When I do my bead embroidery, I start with a main cabochon or a color theme. If beading an object or picture, I think about what that object may mean to someone or something special about that person. If bead weaving, I enjoy intricate pieces and have certain bead artist I follow and I am inspired by their patterns or kits.” 

Mary Ann displays her work in an annual open house and loves to share beading with others. To commission a piece or to connect with Mary Ann, email madcatchp@gmail.com