Native American Artist from Windsor Embraces Multifaceted Creativity

Sarah Joy Tang, an enrolled member of the Ho-Chunk Nation, has built a thriving business blending traditional Native American art with modern design.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Sarah Joy Tang, a 44-year-old Native American artist and graphic designer living in Windsor, California, has established herself as a true Renaissance woman through her diverse creative talents. From silkscreen printing and jewelry-making to graphic design and fine art, Tang's work is inspired by her Ho-Chunk heritage and blends traditional Indigenous imagery with contemporary pop culture elements.

Why it matters

Tang's story highlights the resilience and creativity of Native American artists, who often face challenges in preserving their cultural traditions while also adapting to modern artistic mediums and business models. Her success as a multifaceted artist and entrepreneur serves as an inspiration to other Native creatives looking to share their unique perspectives and talents with the world.

The details

Tang, who was born into a mixed-race family, developed a passion for art at a young age. She honed her skills in various media, including sculpture, photography, and woodworking, before eventually finding her niche in graphic design and silkscreen printing. Much of her work features a blend of Sasquatch, Star Nations, and other Indigenous imagery, which she prints onto t-shirts, sweatshirts, and other apparel. Tang's graphic design skills also earned her the winning logo design for the San Jose Sharks' annual Native American Heritage Night in 2025.

  • Tang was born in 1982 and grew up in California after her family moved from Wisconsin in 1987.
  • She has been a full-time artist for the past 20 years, since 2006.
  • In 2021, Tang taught herself how to do silkscreen printing and started her own clothing line.
  • In 2025, Tang won a contest to design the logo for the San Jose Sharks' Native American Heritage Night.
  • Tang has been sober since October 17, 2019, after overcoming alcohol addiction in her 30s.

The players

Sarah Joy Tang

A 44-year-old Native American artist and graphic designer who is an enrolled member of the Ho-Chunk Nation in Wisconsin. She owns the business Creative Native Graphics & Creations and is known for her diverse creative talents, including silkscreen printing, jewelry-making, and graphic design.

John 'JD' Duran

The Native American Center Coordinator at Santa Rosa Junior College, who has recognized Tang as a role model for students interested in entrepreneurship.

Karen Wilder

A web designer and document specialist in Point Arena who has known Tang for many years and has expressed admiration for the color and authenticity of her artwork.

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What they’re saying

“The students have benefited from seeing her build her business and actively participate in so many events promoting her clothing line while being a woman in the small business sector.”

— John 'JD' Duran, Native American Center Coordinator, Santa Rosa Junior College (pressdemocrat.com)

“I was immediately drawn to the bold color palettes and striking imagery; her designs are vibrant on the surface, yet layered with thought and purpose. The more I have come to know Sarah, the more I recognize how her color choices reflect her inner world — her emotions, her resilience, her humor, her determination, and her deep creative spirit. Her work is unapologetically authentic, grounded in identity and lived experience.”

— Karen Wilder, Web Designer and Document Specialist (pressdemocrat.com)

What’s next

Tang plans to continue expanding her clothing line and participating in more events and festivals showcasing her work, further solidifying her reputation as a leading Native American artist and entrepreneur.

The takeaway

Sarah Joy Tang's story demonstrates the power of embracing one's cultural heritage and diverse creative talents, even in the face of personal challenges. Her success as a multifaceted artist and business owner serves as an inspiration for other Native Americans seeking to share their unique perspectives and skills with the world.