“I am an Indian; and while I have learned much from civilization, for which I am grateful, I have never lost my Indian sense of right and justice. I am for development and progress along social and spiritual lines, rather than those of commerce, nationalism, or material efficiency. Nevertheless, so long as I live, I am an American.”

―Charles Alexander Eastman, From the Deep Woods to Civilization

The Artist

Kirsten Goodteacher is a contemporary Indigenous artist, model, and storyteller whose work explores identity, resilience, and what it means to be Indigenous in the modern world. Raised in Aurora, Colorado, before later moving to Sioux Falls, South Dakota, she often describes herself as an "Urban Native". Someone whose Indigenous identity was shaped both by city life and deep cultural connections.

Kirsten is an enrolled member of the Ponca Nation. Her mother and grandfather are members of the Santee Sioux (Dakota) Nation. Growing up in a biracial household, she was raised knowing and embracing her Indigenous heritage, an experience that continues to inform her creative practice and perspective.

Working across painting, fashion, and storytelling, Kirsten examines the enduring impacts of colonization, forced assimilation, Indian boarding schools, broken treaties, and blood quantum on Indigenous communities while celebrating cultural resilience, self-determination, and renewal. Her work blends contemporary aesthetics with Indigenous perspectives, creating visual narratives that honor history while reflecting the realities of Indigenous life today.

Beyond her artwork, Kirsten's creative practice extends into fashion, fitness, and digital storytelling, documenting the intersections of culture, identity, healing, and everyday life. Through every painting, clothing collection, and story she creates, she hopes to leave behind an honest record of what it means to be a modern Indigenous woman. One who honors her ancestors while helping shape the future for the generations that follow.

LIVE

Join me live every Saturday at 9:00 PM Central Time

We'll talk about Indigenous topics, history, current events, art, identity, and whatever the community brings to the conversation. Whether you're here to watch the creative process, ask questions, or just hang out, everyone's welcome.

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Living Legacy Collection

Product mockup

Ancestors in Motion is an ongoing art and apparel project dedicated to honoring Indigenous leaders through original portraiture, storytelling, and contemporary fashion. Each collection begins with a painting and grows into a visual narrative that celebrates the lives, ideas, and enduring impact of those who helped shape Indigenous history. Through art, education, and design, the project seeks to inspire pride, preserve memory, and bring these legacies into the present for new generations.

Custom Orders

Looking for something made just for you?

I accept custom commissions ranging from original paintings and portraits to one-of-a-kind clothing and wearable art. Whether you're looking for a meaningful gift, a piece that honors your family or culture, or a design that tells your personal story, I'd love to hear your vision.

To request a custom order, please send me a message with as much detail as possible, including:

  • What you're looking for (painting, clothing, or another custom piece)
  • Your ideas, inspiration, or reference images
  • Preferred colors, themes, or symbols
  • Size or garment type (if applicable)
  • Any deadline or special occasion

The more information you provide, the better I can understand your vision.

Once I review your request, I'll get back to you with availability, an estimated timeline, and a personalized quote. Every custom piece is created with care, and I look forward to bringing your idea to life.