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I have an uncontrollable urge to create,” Jacquie Cushway declared as she readjusted her perch on a stool in her studio. From the outside, it appears that Jacquie is sitting quietly, patiently, awaiting the next question. But there is an invisible, yet palpable energy about her that belies that quiet exterior. One senses a vigorous turning of wheels in a brain that is both right-handed and left-handed blessed. From behind eyes that have been blinded by an incurable genetic disease—Retinitis Pigmentosa—shine beams of artistic intelligence that fill the room with enthusiasm and ardor.
Under the handle, “Blind Lady Creations,” Jacquie weaves sweet grass, palmetto, leather, wire, glass stones, rope, chain and myriad other materials into stunning works of art that she has deemed “Baska-Vases.” She begins with a form—a vase or other vessel—then meticulously creates signature jewels with names like “Spaceship,” “Wire Elegance,” and “Flowers for the Lady.” Baska-Vases are her own invention initially inspired by her excessive collection of vases she had accumulated through the years. Jacquie considers herself a “basket engineer,” and that is where the left-brain comes in. Her creations are as much an engineering feat as they are an artistic accomplishment. All the more impressive considering the challenges she faces that a
sighted artist need not worry about. Thankfully, her trusty companion and friend, Judie, and friend, Karen, assist her with the tasks that are more difficult such as collecting vessels, and ordering materials from catalogs.
On the mantel and hearth of a wall-length fireplace sits forty or more of the Blind Lady’s recent creations. As diverse in color as they are in form, one wonders how Jacquie addresses the issue of color. Billie DuBose, local watercolorist and president of the Coastal Camden Art League, calls Jacquie’s craftsmanship “astounding” while explaining that she actually emphasizes colors, even dyes her own colors. “She has great creativity,” Billie commented, “and unlimited imagination and energy.” It is that “energy” that is most contagious. And her unwavering passion for sharing her art with the community.
Magnolia Manors, a beautiful St. Marys retirement
facility overlooking the Crooked River, is a recipient of Jacquie’s kind generosity. Administrator Diane Feine says her residents have been inspired by Jacquie many times over.
“I am totally blind. And if I can make a basket, you can make a basket.” According to Diane, this is how Jacquie oftentimes begins her introduction. “We love Jacquie,” she continues. “It’s amazing how she can feel a thread is off in one our resident’s
baskets. She has been a great inspiration for them, and they love to make baskets to give to their loved ones.” Jacquie’s involvement with Magnolia Manors is especially meaningful as it enhances the facility’s Renaissance Lifestyle which emphasizes lifetime learning.
From her self-described roots, a “dirt farm in Arkansas,” to St. Marys, Georgia, where Jacquie continues her metamorphosis as an ever-changing artist, many milestones have ensued. She taught art classes at the community center while still in high school. At one time, she was the youngest employee of the Veterans Administration in her job rehabilitating veterans through arts and crafts. She rose from a GS4 civil service employee to a GS13, retiring as a computer systems analyst—her entire career accomplished after she discovered she was going blind. She has been the featured artist for Jekyll Island as well as for the
Okefenokee Center. She’s on the board of the Camden Art League and Arts Camden. Her volunteer work is admirable as well, contributing many hours demonstrating her art at the local schools and libraries, and raising money for the Crooked Rivers group. Dr. Jo Demmond, past president of Crooked Rivers, had this to say about Jacquie: “She’s a lovely and remarkable human being.”
“Remarkable” may begin to describe Jacquie’s indomitable spirit. Her son, Dave, a contractor in St. Marys, calls her
“amazing.”
“I don’t know anyone who could take the cards she’s been dealt and respond with such resiliency and grace,” Dave said.
Rick Douylliez, Pastor of St. Marys First Presbyterian Church, has often had the pleasure of “Driving Miss Daisy” around Camden to attend to her various community service roles. He says he always finds it a joy. “She is one of the most courageous women I know. Her spirit is unparalleled.”
Jacquie’s Blind Lady Creations have found their way to England, Germany, and points beyond. Visitors and residents have discovered her beautiful artworks at the Old Towne Gallery located in the French Quarter building just a block from the St. Marys waterfront.
“I do not feel handicapped in any way,” Jacquie states emphatically. Indeed, she is not. Simply hold one of her baskets in your hands. Close your eyes. Explore the perfect weave. And think of the adversity she overcame to accomplish such an
extraordinary work of art. Then, open your eyes and cherish the treasure, knowing that you hold in your hands a piece of Jacquie Cushway’s passion and a right big chunk of her heart. Perhaps, though without sight herself, Jacquie Cushway has the uncanny ability to see through the eyes of others the beauty she has created.