Wearable Art Display at Second Saturday Reception

Richard Kastl

Richard Kastl, Osage artist and traditionalist from Pawhuska, Oklahoma, is known for a wide range of original creations: from precisely cut jewelry in silver and gold with his signature motifs – the Cross of Caravaca, Dragonfly, Waterbird, Kokopelli, Stars and Crescent Moons; finely beaded ceremonial items in cut glass seed beads – rattles, drum sticks, fans; and unique clothing.

A feature of the current display is a collection of garments inspired by the Ghost Dance regalia of the nineteenth century. Designed by Kastl and created through the joint efforts of a dedicated group of craftspeople, these shirts and dresses are emblazoned in brilliant dyes on silk with motifs reminiscent of those painted on the muslin and hide garments created during the Ghost Dance revival of the late nineteenth century, culminating in the massacre at Wounded Knee in 1890.

Johnny Crowels

In addition to the Kastl collection are the one-of-a-kind medallion necklaces by Johnny Crowels, Seminole-Creek beadwork and graphic artist. Crowels combines finely fashioned beadwork and exquisitely executed miniature drawings on bone to create unique pieces of wearable art.

Pomo Regalia

Another feature is a collection of spectacular necklaces and chokers by Luwana Quitiquit and Meyo Marrufo, of Robinson Rancheria in Lake County, reflecting the traditional culture of their Pomo heritage. Bold combinations of carefully shaped abalone and other shells, pine nuts and imaginative selections of glass trade beads, create a distinctive Californian appeal.

Pacific Western Traders is open Wednesday through Sunday 10:00 to 5:00 at 305 Wool Street in the historic district of Folsom.

Wearable Art Display at Second Saturday Reception

August 11 to September 11, 2007

6:00 to 9:00, August 11, 2007

Courtney Puffer
Courtney Puffer is a writer and art dealer, who runs Pacific Western Traders with his father, Herb, in Folsom, California. Courtney is extremely knowledgeable about native American art and customs. Sadly, Courtney passed away on 17th September, 2008, while on a business trip, but his writing lives on at NewsBlaze.