Onyx and Agate Beaded Earrings, "Tuxedo"

Mary is no stranger to life’s serious difficulties, but she faces it all with courage. "After a 17-hour brain surgery, I was forced to confront the painful reality of being a single parent after my husband left me and our children," she says. "I still battle the effects from the surgery but am able to work." In the face of these significant challenges, Mary has awed us with her ability to provide for her family through her art. She is an amazing example of women’s empowerment.

This artist is working with some sort of disability ranging from mental or physical and includes conditions such as being handicapped physically, or perhaps having a condition such as autism. This is also awarded to artists that employ other artists with disabilities.

Mary is a brave and an extremely loving mother. Even with the challenges she faces from her brain surgery, she supports her youngest son who is now unemployed and suffering from depression. Her other son has an undiagnosed disease and a paralyzed leg.

Mary Geluda has received 2 microcredit loans with 0% interest from Kiva and Novica, the first for $450 and the most recent for $500.

This artist is an elder master and continues to actively practice their craft.