about the artist
eLLISSA thompsoN
As a young woman growing up in the Bay Area, Ellissa always admired the beadwork of powwow dancers and aunties around her. After getting over the initial intimidation, she finally picked up a needle and thread at 22 years old and worked until the sun came up! When COVID-19 caused her job to close their physical doors and go online, she decided to turn her hobby into a way to support herself and help her stay engaged in her community. She has found immense support and education through the amazing beading circle at Intertribal Friendship House Oakland, the Bay Area Native Community, and her community back in Chickasaw Country.
At the core, all the artists that contribute to Ihoo Taloowa believe that beadwork is a way to share our cultures with the world. We hope you feel the love in our work and share our story when people say “Oh my goodness! I love your earrings!”
The name ‘Ihoo Taloowa’ means Singing Woman in Chikashshanompa’. The name is inspired by Ellissa’s musical past as a singer and former theater kid. It is pronounced ‘ee-hoh tah-low-wah.’
featured artist
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featured artist .
Nevaeh TreviÑo
Nevaeh is a 23 year old multi-media artist with Navajo and Eastern Shoshone roots. Born and raised in Oakland, California, she can often be found at her 9-5, hosting various community events with her friends, elders, and family.
See some of Nevaeh’s previous projects below:
kat herman-williams
Kat is a 26 year-old member of the Choctaw Tribe with Kiowa, Lakota, and Caddo heritage living in Hemet, California. Originally from Boulder, Colorado, she moved to the west coast to attend the University of Redlands where she received her Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science. She is an artist, beader, web developer, and creator of this website!
For web development inquiries, please contact: katherinehw@icloud.com