Master bead maker and local fisherwomen Martha Nunez makes some of the largest, most sought after Quahog shell beads in the world. Martha balances traditional and contemporary styles in her designs. In the fishing industry for 37 years, she and her husband run a commercial quahog dragger in Nantucket Sound.
Martha's daughter, Mercy, was raised on fishing boats and the beaches of Cape Cod, watching her mother collect and carve this royal shell. Naturally she accompanies her in the artistry. Mercy credits her mother with instilling her with respect and reverence for the ocean.
Both Martha and Mercy can be found working or playing in the sea. Martha is one of the most fearless female surfers on Cape Cod, regularly surfing among hundreds of seals on south beach in Chatham. Mercy is considered to be one the most talented and accomplished female surfers in New England.
When the sound freezes over, Martha and Mercy travel the worlds Oceans seeking waves.
From the Caribbean Sea to the Indian Ocean and everywhere in between, they have collected shell including Conch, Abalone, Giant clam and Batu Laga which have all been incorporated into thier designs. Martha and Mercy are skilled water women, world travelers and most of all quintessential Cape Codders.