“Having known Cathy Smith for many years, it is a true privilege to recommend her extraordinary memoir, Double Woman Dreamer, a work that reflects the depth of her character, artistry, and life’s journey. Cathy played a foundational role in my directorial debut, Dances with Wolves. As costume creator, her meticulous research, artistic vision, and deep respect for Native American design helped shape what audiences would see, feel, and ultimately believe. The visual authenticity that became such an important part of that film owes much to her dedication and expertise. Her work elevated traditional Native arts onto the global stage and set a standard for cultural integrity that continues to inspire filmmakers and artists alike. Cathy Smith has spent a lifetime building bridges between worlds, preserving traditions, and sharing knowledge with grace and humility. Double Woman Dreamer stands as both a personal memoir and an important cultural contribution. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Native American culture, the power of dreams and spiritual guidance, and the extraordinary life of a woman whose work has left a lasting mark on generations of artists, storytellers, and readers.”
– Kevin Costner, Academy Award–winning actor, and director; Emmy Award and Golden Globe Award winner

“While reading Cathy’s book, I was taken back to my life on the Rosebud and Pine Ridge Reservations during the early 1990s. She mentions the names of many Lakota people who were instrumental in preserving the traditional Lakota way of life for a new generation. She has woven together the history of the land, the culture of the Lakota people, and her own personal story. Her invitation into Lakota spiritual life by her adopted family was an invitation which many non-natives are permitted. A gift given; a gift well used.”
– Emil Her Many Horses (Oglala Lakota), curator at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian

“For decades, I have known Cathy Smith as a remarkable woman and supremely talented artisan, painter, and storyteller. It comes as no surprise that her memoir is beautifully written, vividly recounted, and compellingly readable. But the true value of Double Woman Dreamer lies in its illumination of Lakota spiritual beliefs, practices, and history, both tragic and redemptive.”
– Chase Reynolds Ewald, author, editor, consultant, and partner True North Creative Studio

“In Double Woman Dreamer, Cathy tells the fascinating story of her development as an artist known worldwide for her expertise in nineteenth-century quillwork, beadwork, and regalia making as practiced by Native people of the Great Plains. Her expertise is matched by her enthusiasm and her willingness to teach others. This is a compelling read that provides insight into Native worldviews as well as Hollywood filmmaking.”
– Janet C. Berlo. PhD, Professor Emerita at the University of Rochester, and author of Spirit Beings and Sun Dancers and Native North American Art

“This is a very important book. Anyone interested in Native American history should take this story to heart. Cathy writes eloquently about her heritage, sharing a deeply personal and moving account that offers valuable insight into Native American history and culture. It is both educational and inspiring, and I highly recommend it.”
– Barbara Van Cleve, acclaimed photographer and the author of Hard Twist, Pure Quill, and Roughstock Sonnets, and an Inductee into the National Cowgirl Museum & Hall of Fame

“At a time when traditional Indigenous cultures face the constant threat of dilution, the tireless efforts of scholars and practitioners like Cathy Smith are critical. She protects our American heritage from being lost, educating museum curators, international collectors, and Hollywood producers alike. On behalf of the Lakota Sicangu of Rosebud, and in my own name as a scholar and representative, I express our eternal gratitude to Cathy Smith. Her legacy is woven into the very fabric of our cultural survival. …. Mitakuye Oyasin— ‘We Are All Related.’”
– Prof. Alessandro Martire, PhD, honorary member of the Lakota Sicangu Nation and president of Wambli Gleska cultural association

“A must read for anyone who wants to gain an understanding of what true bravery and a willingness to be raw and honest looks like. Having known and admired Cathy for many years, I knew bits and pieces of her story and was always in awe of her craftsmanship and skills. But to read her entire journey is to be overwhelmed by her unbelievable courage and willingness to never give up. I am grateful that she is sharing her story and allowing readers to gain insight into a culture that is seldom written about, while keeping history and traditions alive.”
– Pat Riley, executive director of The National Cowgirl Museum & Hall of Fame

“Cathy Smith is one of those rare people who can walk the walk and talk the talk. She’s spent a lifetime studying the costumes and traditions of the American West. Not only is she an expert on what people wore during specific periods, but she can also fabricate costumes using traditional methods. In particular, her knowledge of Native American dress is unsurpassed. She is truly a unique and remarkable individual whom we are proud to call our friend.”
– John Moyers and Terri Kelly Moyers, artists

“I have known Cathy or over 35 years and witnessed her follow her dreams over tough roads, without question or compromise. Drawing on the knowledge her elders have shared with her, she has become not only a master of quillwork and beadwork but also someone who has entered the world of spiritual connection that will be her legacy. She is generous with her knowledge and has much to teach. I highly recommend this book, which captures a unique worldview alive with spirit.”
– Paul Rainbird, tribal member of the Tewa of San Ildefonso Pueblo and its kiva society, former president of the Board of Regents of the Museums of New Mexico and retired director of the Museum of the Institute of American Indian Arts

“Cathy Smith’s The Shirt Wearers collection of meticulously reproduced regalia honoring twelve of the most important Native leaders transcends costume design and historical research. It is art. It was one of the most popular exhibits ever hosted by the Booth Museum.”
– Seth Hopkins, former executive director of the Booth Western Art Museum