Winifred Mason Chenet (January 31, 1912 – 1993)
A Trailblazing Pioneer in Jewelry Design and Cultural Expression
She holds a distinguished place in American history as a groundbreaking African-American jeweler and cultural advocate. Renowned for her innovative use of copper and her unique designs inspired by West Indian traditions, Mason Chenet is widely recognized as the first commercial African-American jeweler in the United States.
Early Life and Education
Born on January 31, 1912, in Brooklyn, New York, Winifred Mason grew up in a family that valued education and creativity. Her academic pursuits began with a Bachelor of Science in English Literature in 1934, followed by a Master of Arts in Education from New York University in 1936. Although she initially trained to be a teacher, Mason’s artistic inclinations and desire to explore cultural expressions would lead her down a different path.
Her early career included teaching underprivileged youth, including as a crafts instructor at the Harlem Boys Club and through the WPA (Works Progress Administration). During this time, Mason met Art Smith, who later became one of the most prominent African-American jewelers, and he credited her mentorship as instrumental in his success.
Career in Jewelry Design
Mason began crafting jewelry in 1940 with her first piece—a pendant of bronze, copper, and silver—that captivated her friends and quickly garnered demand. Her pieces, each one unique, showcased her exceptional craftsmanship and creativity. When standard tools didn’t meet her needs, Mason would make her own, reflecting her resourcefulness and dedication to her art.
In 1943, her work achieved broader recognition when she received her first order from a prestigious Fifth Avenue department store. Shortly thereafter, she established a studio in Greenwich Village, which became a hub for her burgeoning career. Her clientele included luminaries like Billie Holiday, and her works were sold at upscale stores like Lord & Taylor.
By the late 1940s, Mason had hosted ten exhibitions of her jewelry, including solo shows in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and Port-au-Prince, Haiti. Her jewelry was more than an adornment; it was a fusion of artistic expression and cultural storytelling, rooted in African and West Indian influences.
Rosenwald Grant and Research in Haiti
In the 1940s, Mason received a Rosenwald Fund grant to study West Indian art and culture. This transformative research included time in Haiti, where she immersed herself in the country’s traditions and artistic practices. It was during this period that she met and married Jean Chenet, a Haitian art enthusiast, in 1948.
Mason relocated to Haiti, where she continued her jewelry work under her married name, Winifred Chenet. She introduced “voodoo-inspired” jewelry that drew from Haitian spirituality and folklore, merging artistry with cultural representation. Additionally, she ran a store in New York City selling Haitian art, further promoting the country’s rich artistic heritage.
Tragedy and Resilience
Mason’s life took a devastating turn in 1963 when her husband was murdered by Haiti’s feared Tonton Macoute militia. Forced to flee for her safety, Mason returned to the United States, where she rebuilt her life and career.
Despite personal tragedy, she remained committed to uplifting others. Mason actively championed Black women artists, using her platform to mentor and support underrepresented voices in the arts.
Awards and Honors
Winifred Mason Chenet’s contributions to art and culture earned her widespread recognition during her lifetime.
- 1943: Recognition for her Fifth Avenue department store designs.
- 1940s: Multiple solo exhibitions in the U.S. and Haiti.
- 1990: Honored by The Girl Friends, Inc., an organization supporting Black women’s achievements.
Legacy
Winifred Mason Chenet passed away in 1993, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, innovation, and cultural celebration. She is remembered not only as a trailblazer in jewelry design but also as a mentor and advocate for future generations of artists, including Art Smith.
Her work, rooted in tradition yet boldly innovative, continues to inspire designers and cultural historians. By incorporating African and Caribbean influences into her jewelry, Mason reshaped the narrative of Black artistry in America, ensuring its recognition and appreciation on a global scale.
Impact on Jewelry Design:
- As the first commercial African-American jeweler, Mason opened doors for Black artists in an industry that had long excluded them.
- Her unique, handcrafted pieces stand as timeless symbols of cultural pride and artistic excellence.
- Mason’s commitment to individuality in her designs emphasized the power of art as a personal and cultural statement.
Winifred Mason Chenet’s life and career are a testament to the enduring impact of art, courage, and the power of representation.