Olivia “Rose” Williamson, owner and operator of Lady Pompadour Beadwork and Design, has garnered widespread recognition within the Apsáalooke community and across the Northern Plains. Renowned for her expertise in traditional beadwork, Rose is affectionately referred to by friend Carrie Moran McCleary as a “certified bead florist,” further stating that Rose’s old-school Apsáalooke florals stand out as unmatched in their community. Rose’s mastery extends beyond these florals to encompass a diverse range of traditional and modern Apsáalooke clothing, intricate horse gear, moccasins, fully beaded outfits, and powwow attire, a testament to her years as a powwow dancer. Each piece she creates pays homage to the enduring traditions that have shaped her community’s way of life and reflects her decades of beading and sewing. Furthermore, they embody the techniques she has mastered since learning to bead and sew from her mother at the age of seven, as well as the knowledge she gained from numerous mentors in the years that followed.
Throughout her career, Rose has achieved numerous notable milestones and accolades. In 2005, her talent was honored with the prestigious “Best in Show” award for a beaded Crow-style cradleboard at the American Indian Higher Education Consortium. In 2021, Rose was recognized when she received first place for her contemporary work at the Native Days Art Show in Crow Agency. Rose’s artistic prowess has continued to earn her acceptance into esteemed events such as the Native Peoples Market in Rapid City, South Dakota, and the renowned Heard Indian Art Market in both 2022 and 2023.
Rose’s work has graced both runways and cultural centers alike. Her jewelry has adorned the showcases of esteemed Crow fashion designers, including Designs by Della and Plains Soul models. On the runway, Rose’s original designs have captivated audiences at events such as the Montana Folk Festival’s First Peoples’ Fashion Show and the Uplifting Artists Fashion Show and Art Gala at the Seattle Art Museum. Through these platforms, she has not only showcased her talent but also shared the rich heritage of Crow culture with a wider audience.
Rose also donates and uses her time and work to raise awareness on critical issues faced by as well as uplift the Native community. The Billings Urban Indian Health and Wellness Center commissioned Rose to complete a beaded wall hanging, which was used as a billboard and handbill across the state of Montana. Further, Rose is a strong advocate for Missing and Murdered Indigenous People (MMIP). She has participated in art shows, walks, and other activities that raise awareness of MMIP, such as her textile, acrylic, and mixed-media submissions to the Emerson Center for the Arts and Culture’s exhibit “We Are Still Here And This is Our Story: Revisited.” Furthermore, Rose’s initiative in founding the Facebook page “All Native Nations Entrepreneurs” has provided a vital platform for promoting Native artists and businesses while disseminating valuable information on grants and entrepreneurship. Her efforts have established a foundation for Indigenous entrepreneurs to connect with a wider audience.