'Comparing the Plains Indians with the Woodland Indians is a constant inspiration for expressing his work.'

makes unique gift items.  Selections are cut from Minnesota grown pine trees. Attention is drawn towards the grain and texture of the wood.  Nestled in the North Woods of Minnesota, most designs were inspired from this area.  Intrigued by the wildlife and  nature of this pristine domain, the essence hopefully is conveyed in each design.

Centrally located at Bemidji, Minnesota, Mato Sha is close to three Indian Reservations: Leech Lake, Red Lake and White Earth.  Mato Sha looks to these places for development of our products.  Mato Sha produces items that can be made at home. Up in this region there is many inspirations for the designs made for our products.  If one has the pleasure of  going to one of the many Pow Wows around here, you could appreciate how the designs of some of the dancers were developed.  Then there is the Ojibwa clans in Northern Minnesota each with their own interesting family connections.   

Although Charlie Gillespie is a member of the Oglala Lakota of western South Dakota, he calls the Bemidji, Minnesota area his home.  He finds the cultural differences between the Lakota and Ojibwa fascinating.  Comparing the Plains Indians with the Woodland Indians is a constant inspiration for expressing his work.