Mariah Tyakohelahthè Diaz is helping carry Oneida beading traditions into the next generation. Through her business, Ostalókwa by Mariah, Diaz creates traditional and contemporary beadwork, from custom medallions to jewelry to graduation caps, for clients across Wisconsin and beyond.

Preserving Culture

Diaz grew up between Milwaukee and Green Bay, where her grandma used to take her to powwows, introducing her to the world of beadwork. Although she was introduced to beading when she was younger, Diaz didn’t begin practicing beadwork professionally until 2020. She learned from her aunts, Sharon and Carmen, who taught her traditional beading techniques.

For Mariah, learning and practicing beadwork was more than a craft; it was a way to reconnect with traditions that previous generations were not always able to pass down. Her grandma and grandpa were raised in Catholic schools and weren’t able to direct her into these traditions, which impacted her desire to learn.

Impact and Growth

Among her most meaningful commissions are graduation caps, which have become a way for Native American students to celebrate both their academic achievements and their cultural identity. Daniel Vermiglio, a relative and client, commissioned Diaz to create custom high school graduation caps for both his children.

Diaz’s audience and confidence grew after creating pieces for former Milwaukee Bucks player MarJon Beauchamp, who is Native American, and current Bucks star Bobby Portis. As Ostalókwa by Mariah continues to grow, her focus remains on preserving Oneida traditions.

Original reporting: Wisconsin Watch — read the source article.