The Colemans are known as Clarksdale's "King and Queen of Style" for their beautiful matching clothing ensembles and willingness to play with fashion. They can often be seen in the juke joints and clubs of their hometown, leading the dancefloor with their signature moves and flashing their combination of "cowboy" and glamorous styles. The two have won numerous dance contests in their hometown.
In addition to their unmistakable presence on Clarksdale's social scene, the Colemans have also created a beautiful home environment for themselves and their family. Their home plot, situated on the Sunflower River, boasts yard installations and elaborate interior design. They often catch turtles in the river for dinner and grow grapes and berries in their lush backyard. Their many children and grandchildren often gather at the compound for meals and music.
Brenda, who works as a kindergarten teacher, bus driver and clerk in the sewing department of Wal-Mart, makes a handful of dresses, pantsuits and jackets each month. Sometimes she modifies patterns from the store and others, she creates from scratch. Her distinctive marks are her love of textured fabric and attention to detail.
Ellis, a brother to contemporary Delta blues player James "Super Chickan" Johnson, is a bluesman, award-winning club dancer and artist who has created a series of installations throughout the house he and Brenda share. His themes range from the Wild West, to hunting and jungle themes. He grew up in the country, he says, where he learned to refurbish throwaway materials into toys and artwork.
Brenda can be reached regarding her fashion design and seamstress work by appointment through this project at tim [at] materialmississippi.org