Art In This Present Moment
Thomas Stillday, Jr.
Thomas Stillday, Jr. mixes unique stitching techniques with a distinct choice of colors to distinguish his beadwork style.
He has made work using the lazy stitch style of beading mixed with appliqué flatwork. He currently uses appliqué flatwork beadwork to create unique Ojibwe designs on bandolier bags.
About the Artist
Thomas Stillday, Jr. was born to bead. For 40 years he has taken the traditional beading techniques, designs and concepts of his grandmother, mother and father to develop a distinct and personal style of work.
From an early age he traveled to powwows with his family and was always checking out other people’s beadwork. This sparked a burning desire inside him to create and design his own intricate pieces.
Today he travels all over to powwows looking for new ways to improve his work. He is proud to represent his culture, and does so in his beadwork that incorporates distinctive Ojibwe patterns highlighting his tribal affiliation.
Thomas mixes newer beads and unique color choices with beads of the past to create beautiful Ojibwe beadwork. He is currently working to bring back big beaded bags, which is a style that Anishinaabe people were known for. Through beadwork he strives to present his unique style and personal vision, while constantly thinking of colors and designs that recognize the traditional Ojibwe floral patterns.
About the Organization
Manidoo Ogitgaan’s mission is to work with our communities to preserve and revitalize the Spiritual knowledge, language, culture, and ceremonies of the Anishinaabeg to improve their health and the health of their ecological family.
“For the community, I like to show that we still keep our traditions. Right now people are doing fancy beadwork, I would call it, and I'm sticking to the old-style Ojibwe work that Ojibwes were known for.”
Thomas Stillday, Jr.
Art In This Present Moment
This project is part of Art in This Present Moment, an initiative of the Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation, with funding from the McKnight Foundation. We provided grants to three Minnesota-based nonprofit organizations to fund work by BIPOC artists who are changing and challenging dominant narratives through their craft.
More Stories
Meeting the Moment: How the Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation Expanded Community Support in a Critical Year
A one-time, twenty percent increase in dollars granted reflects the Foundation’s commitment to community-driven solutions, urgent needs and long-term equity.
See the impact
Leading a Path Forward: How Queen Drea Uses Music to Find Her Roots
Sound alchemist Queen Drea seeks reconnection with her family’s heritage through music and storytelling.
See the project
Fall 2025 Food Assistance: What You Can Do
Nonprofits, community partners and food shelves are working swiftly to provide resources to fill in the gap as best they can.
View the list
Fall Harvest: Food Support Nonprofits
Meet a few of our nonprofit partners that provide food access and hunger relief services to the East Metro.
View the list
Strengthening Democracy: Community Voices and Civic Engagement in Minnesota
Here’s how philanthropy, local leadership and trusted news can shape Minnesota’s democratic future.
See the Highlights
Finding Common Ground: Facilitating Cultural Change Workshop
Changing my perspective has changed my approach to finding common ground and building community.
See the Highlights
Brass Solidarity: Bringing Music to George Floyd Square
Trumpet player Butchy Austin and his band, Brass Solidarity, use their sound for good every Monday in George Floyd Square.
See the project
Minnesota Latino Museum: Celebrating Mexican and Latino Art and Culture
Learn how one organization is establishing an arts and cultural landmark in Saint Paul.
See the Highlights