Penelope Phillips is a filmmaker from in Northern California. Recently retired after working in broadcast news for 26 years, Phillips is now taking on her passion of producing documentaries. With a major interest in Native art, Phillips is preparing to release her newest film, Spirit in Glass.

Spirit in Glass is a story of Plateau beadwork, as told by Plateau bead artists. Phillips says the pictorial beadwork that is unique to the area is a metaphor for vibrancy and survival of the Native culture. It started in a time of upheaval, where the elders adapted by beading individual stories to keep the culture alive. Her goal through the film is to show this and the strength of the Plateau people.

Phillips currently belongs to two documentary organizations, including the International Documentary Association. She holds honors with the Smithsonian Film Festival and has won a Golden Mic Award, with several other nominations.

Spirit in Glass can be seen on PBS stations starting in November, and purchased through Vision Maker Media.