Maria Tallchief is the legendary dancer who rose to fame on the world stage as the first prima ballerina of the New York City Ballet from 1947 to l960. Her performance of “The Firebird” in l949, choreographed by her then husband, Russian choreographer George Ballanchine, catapulted Maria to international stardom.

Born in 1925, was the first Native American to become prima ballerina. From 1942 to 1947 she was the featured soloist at the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo. She also originated the role of the Sugarplum Fairy in Balanchine's version of The Nutcracker, in 1954. Tallchief continued to dance with the New York City Ballet and with other groups until her retirement in 1965.

With her sister Marjorie, she founded the Chicago City Ballet in 1981 and served as its artistic director until 1987. From 1990 to present she has been artistic advisor to Kenneth von Heidecke’s Chicago Festival Ballet. Maria received the "Kennedy Center Award for the Arts" in 1996, along with many other awards and honors.

Mask Designed by Ilene Kemerley

Prima Ballerina

“The Maria Tallchief mask design was inspired by my respect for the discipline and dedication ballet demands. I thought it appropriate to show Maria in a state of complete concentration, almost as if she is preparing to go on stage.”

Ilene Kemerley is a graphic designer, artist and illustrator. “I have been in the business of creating for two decades and can't imagine living a day without doing it. I am greatly influenced by the bold fashion of Custo Barcelona, architecture and movies.”

For more information about this mask or artist, email ikemerley@gmail.com or visit ilenekemerley.com.