Paul Crane Tohlakai is a full-blood Dineh (Navajo) from the Black Mountain region of Arizona as well as the founder of Sacred Mountains Foundation. He is an artisan whose creations are inspired by traditional Native American beliefs, especially the belief that everything one creates is a reflection of one's interpretation of the natural world. Spirit is the true impulse of creation, as is evident in the workmanship of his drums, and his use of meaningful symbols and combinations of natural materials and colors. Tohlakai hopes that those who use his drums discover their own personal relationship with the natural world, for the spirit is in all things.
Each Tohlakai ceremonial drum is individually handcrafted and tuned. Through his own evolution as a craftsman of traditional drum making, he has developed an original stretch and tie technique. He uses hand-shaped yellow cedar hoops; a variety of naturally processed hides, including elk, horse, deer, moose and mule deer, as available; and deer and elk antlers as handles.
These high-quality drums have won numerous awards at national pow wows, including 1st prize for craftsmanship. His drums are used by top singers throughout the United States and Canada. Paul Tohlakai is an active member of the Indian Arts and Crafts Association.
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