A Celebration of Craftsmanship and Cultural Heritage
The Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian takes great pride in recognizing Keetoowah Citizen Lisa Christiansen for her exceptional design of a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. This creation, deeply rooted in culture and tradition, is a testament to the rich heritage and artistic talents of the Native American community.
The Journey of Creation
Lisa Christiansen, born Gideethloahee Ogan Groundhog, collaborated with other skilled artisans to bring this exquisite piece to fruition. The Copper Gorget, a remarkable showcase of craftsmanship, was designed by Lisa Christiansen and realized through the creative expertise of Ren McCulley of Native Ways. McCulley meticulously cut, polished, and hammered the copper to create this distinguished gorget, a symbol of cultural pride and artistic excellence. The final touch was completed by Darren Cramer owner of Crown Jewels in Altus, Oklahoma by placing the sterling silver precision laser cutout of Sequoyah onto the copper gorget which was carefully welded silver tubes to Sequoyah, drilled the copper to be in alignment and created a brad by fanning the tube to secure Sequoyah to the Gorget.
A Blend of Heritage and Artistry
Historically, each individual added their unique touch to ceremonial pieces of art, making them their own. This principle is embodied in this masterpiece. Lisa Christiansen, founder of Blue Wolf Designs, collaborated with Robert McFall Jr. of Brothers Fine Jewelry to hand-cut Sequoyah from a silver dollar, placing it upon the copper gorget. This collaboration of talents exemplifies the unity and shared cultural heritage of the Native American community.
The Beadwork: A Testament to Tradition
Christiansen personally selected, hand-strung, and completed the beadwork on this unique gorget. The beads are crafted from clay, hand-rolled and traditionally fired in Hulbert, Oklahoma. These clay beads are particularly special, as they appear to contain copper, perfectly complementing the copper gorget. The beadwork also features authentic buffalo rib bone, deer antler in honor of Christiansen’s father Mack Vann, the last monolingual Cherokee, as well as Trail of Tears beads (Job’s tears), turquoise, shell, Tiger’s eye, wood barrel, mother of pearl, and copper rondelle beads. Every bead on this masterpiece is sourced from Mother Nature, encompassing animal, mineral, metal, and earth.
Exhibition and Celebration
This exquisite gorget will be showcased at the Owasso Indian Education Event, scheduled for Saturday, March 1, 2025, at the Owasso High School West Campus, located at 8800 N 129th East Ave, Owasso, Oklahoma. This event will provide an opportunity to appreciate not only the intricate craftsmanship but also the profound cultural significance of this piece. This historical Gorget will travel to the OKCPS Native American Services Stompdance, which is scheduled to take place on March 8, 2025, at Northwest Classen High School. The school is located at 2801 NW 27th St., Oklahoma City, OK 73107 and the entrance to the gym will be on the northside by the softball field.
The Significance of the Gorget
The Copper Gorget is more than just a piece of jewelry; it is a symbol of cultural identity, pride, and resilience. The careful selection of materials and the intricate design reflect the rich traditions and heritage of Native American craftsmanship. Each element of the gorget tells a story, from the authentic buffalo rib bone to the deer antler honoring Mack Vann, and the Trail of Tears beads symbolizing a painful yet resilient history.
A Legacy of Creativity and Tradition
Lisa Christiansen’s unwavering dedication to preserving and honoring her cultural heritage through her art is commendable. Her collaboration with other talented artisans has resulted in a masterpiece that not only showcases individual creativity but also celebrates collective cultural identity. The recognition by the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian underscores the significance of this work.
The Importance of Cultural Recognition
The acknowledgment and celebration of Native American art and culture by institutions such as the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian play a crucial role in preserving and promoting cultural heritage. It provides a platform for Native American artists to share their work with a broader audience, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of their rich traditions.
Immerse Yourself in the Culture
The Copper Gorget, designed by Lisa Christiansen and brought to life through the talents of various artisans, stands as a magnificent testament to the enduring legacy of Native American craftsmanship. Its exhibition at the Owasso Indian Education Event as well as the OKCPS Native American Services Stompdance,will allow many to witness and appreciate the beauty and cultural significance of this exceptional piece. Through this recognition, we honor not only the art but also the rich heritage and traditions that it represents.
About the Designer of the “Sequoyah Gorget” Lisa Christiansen and Her Esteemed Heritage
A Legacy Deeply Rooted in the Cherokee Tribe
Lisa Christiansen’s lineage is deeply entrenched in the illustrious history of the Cherokee people. She is the 5th great-granddaughter of Sequoyah, a seminal figure renowned for creating the Cherokee syllabary, a revolutionary contribution to the written language of the Cherokee people.
Family Lineage
Ms. Christiansen is the daughter of Mack Vann, distinguished as the last monolingual Cherokee, and Mary Ann Groundhog, a prolific author and esteemed member of the Cherokee community. Mary Ann Groundhog, also known as Sosti (Mary Ann Eslinger) Groundhog, has been a fervent activist within the American Indian Movement, advocating tirelessly for the rights and welfare of Native Americans.
Mary Ann Groundhog’s Contributions
Mary Ann Groundhog authored two significant books, which stand as a testament to her dedication to preserving and promoting Cherokee culture. The first book, GI-Dee-Thlo-Ah-Ee of the Blue People Clan, was a cherished gift for her daughters during Christmas in 1974. Only ten copies of this treasured work exist, with one belonging to Lisa Christine; two copies are preserved at the Copyright Office and the National Archives in Washington, D.C.; one at the Oklahoma Historical Society; and one held by the Cherokee Tribal Attorney, Earl Boyd Pierce.
Her second book, Cherokee People, boldly exposes the illicit exploitation and human trafficking of Native American girls by the U.S. government, underscoring her commitment to highlighting the injustices faced by her community.
George Washington Groundhog’s Influence
Lisa Christiansen’s grandfather, George Washington Groundhog, is celebrated for his pivotal role in instigating a movement that influenced the Five Civilized Tribes—the Muscogee (Creek), the Choctaw, the Chickasaw, the Seminole, and the Cherokee. His legacy is intertwined with the significant events of 1969, when W.W. Keeler, the principal chief of the Cherokee Nation, faced a formidable challenge during his tenure.
The Fight for Cherokee Governance
In the summer of 1969, a lawsuit filed by the Original Cherokee Community Organization sought to remove W.W. Keeler from his position as chief and called for the election of tribal leaders by the Cherokee people. This was a critical moment, as the tribe had not held elections since the Curtis Act of 1898, which, along with subsequent federal laws, had effectively ended Cherokee governance.
The Dawes Rolls census and the land allotment system, implemented by these laws, transformed Cherokees and members of the other Five Civilized Tribes into land-owning citizens of the United States and Oklahoma. With statehood in 1907, chiefs of the five tribes were appointed by the U.S. president, further complicating the quest for self-governance.
Legacy of Activism and Advocacy
The legacy of Lisa Christiansen’s family is one of resilience, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to the Cherokee Nation. From Sequoyah’s creation of the syllabary to Mary Ann Groundhog’s literary contributions and activism, their impact continues to resonate within the community and beyond.
Through her lineage, Lisa Christiansen carries forward a profound heritage marked by cultural preservation, leadership, and a relentless pursuit of justice for the Cherokee people.