Meet Lakota Sage of Native Gorilla in West Denver

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lakota Sage.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I got the inspiration to start Native Gorilla back when I was 17 years old. I registered the name with the state my senior year in high school (2009). One of my biggest inspirations that helped influence me to get into fashion is Volcom clothing out of San Clemente, CA. I grew up in the mountains of Colorado and have been snowboarding most my life, thats how I got the nickname the Mountain Gorilla, which then created the name Native Gorilla. When I use Native, to me and to the brand it represents that we are all native to this world and unity. Using my art and my brand, my main focus is to support non-profits, creative movements artist and visionaries. Walt Pourier, the founder and operator of the Stronghold Society, is the nonprofit we support most often. Walt has inspired me to do what I do now in supporting my community and people that need a helping hand. My goal is to continue to grow and keep supporting whats right for the people and for the world.

Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The road hasn’t always been smooth but its been worth it. When we first started, event selection was difficult because its basically all trial and error. Eventually, you figure out what events and demographics fit the brand and go from there. Something that continues to be a growing process is branching outside of Colorado and find our niche in other communities outside our comfort zone.

Please tell us about Native Gorilla.
We are a silkscreen, printing, and handmade goods brand. Specializing in out in house brand (Native Gorilla) clothing and custom t-shirts. I’m most proud of how we have been able to be a support and education source for our community in multiple ways. What sets us apart is that all of our silkscreening is done in house, as well as our jewelry!

Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
One of my favorite childhood memories was my mom (Dancing Breeze) taking me to get my photos taken to be exhibited in the Colorado History Museum! This exhibit was focused on Indigenous people making a positive impact on the community, and at the time, I was a professional snowboarder. This is also a great memory because its the first time I was able to meet Walt (Stronghold Society) and Darius Smith.

Pricing:

• Products vary from $10 -$60 dollars making there something affordable for everyone.

Contact Info:

• Website: native-gorilla.com
• Email: nativegorilla@gmail.com
• Instagram: @nativegorilla
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NativeGorilla/
• Other: https://nativegorilla.bigcartel.com

Image Credit:
Real life Indain
Jackie Kay Gordon

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