While browsing Facebook, I stumbled across a business named Tha Painted Goat, a husband and wife duo specializing in couture indigenous jewelry and artwork. Colton and Crystal Tohannie are the dynamic duo that has a new take on beaded jewelry, and with their catchy slang title are an imposing team. Crystal is the artist behind the beaded custom regalia accessories, while her husband Colton takes all of the product photographs and manages the website www.thapaintedgoat.com.
Crystal made custom orders while networking through the powwow circuit until COVID brought everything to a halt. Hence, Colton stepped in and launched the website, so people could access the beautiful works of art they were still creating. While interviewing the two, I was tickled to hear how they referred to the other as the company's heart. They both have such a unique skill set that comes together to showcase stunning handmade works of art. Beading is no easy task if you ask me. There are so many details that go along with it, and even tinier pieces are required to be layered upon each other to result in one-of-a-kind pieces.
If you are looking for a unique gift for someone in your life, it is simple to get in touch with Crystal and Colton and let them know your idea, the colors you would like to have in the piece, and when you need the work completed. Crystal has a swift turnaround time, and she can accomplish most pieces in a few short weeks. The products are of the highest quality, filled with an energy that I find difficult to describe as a firm believer that you put your energy into whatever you do. Tha Painted Goat energy is like champagne bubbles that tickle you when you take a sip; it is warm and fun, dare I say refreshing. When I looked through their online market, the photographs were rich and engaging, Colton a self-taught rookie photographer, sets up his wife's art against backdrops that showcase the colors and detail without taking away from the product itself. Each piece and picture complimenting the other in a perfect dance, much like Tohannie's themselves.
Crystal's custom creations blend tradition, personal style, and new trends that are fitting for any occasion. It can be a delicate balance between keeping with the traditions of the Elders and making a stand with the latest fashion trends that pull you in. This balance is perfectly aligned at Tha Painted Goat, giving unique, never-before-seen spins of traditional patterns and designs. Tradition is the cornerstone to everything we do as humans, following in the footsteps of those before us while passing along the best parts of our heritage to our children.
It can be hard to strike the perfect balance of tradition and creativity, especially in something so personal as regalia. If you have never experienced a powwow before, you might not know what regalia is or why it is worn. Regalia is a traditional ornamental dress that is distinctively Native American. It is handmade. Usually, a collection of pieces is passed down within the family. It can take years to complete one's regalia adding bit by bit to have a complete outfit.
Powwows are gatherings that began during a time in history that is rather dark when tribes were broken apart to assimilate to European lifestyles. These gatherings were a way to stay connected to each other and their culture. Regalia is sacred, a visual representation of one's culture and heritage. It has many parts and pieces that relate to ceremonial function, and often various accessories are created from visions or dreams.
The skill required to make regalia is outstanding. You have to, of course, have to possess an eye for design and detail, the ability to sew not only fabric but leather, the ability to create a pattern and bead that pattern, and an understanding of the dance style that goes along with the outfit. Because of this, it is impossible to mass-produce regalia, and every detail has to be handcrafted by someone who understands the nuances and spiritual association with each and every stitch and bead, making Tha Painted Goat more than just a business but an integral part of powwow culture.
If you are interested in placing an order for any custom beadwork or regalia accessories, you can find Colton and Crystal Tohannie at www.thapaintedgoat.com or on Facebook and Instagram @ThaPaintedGoat. Please stop by and admire the beautiful work for sale and get ideas for a unique piece of art to add to your collection or a signature gift for that special person in your life to show them how much you appreciate them! Crystal and Colton will be more than happy to help you create a truly heartfelt gift for any occasion!
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