Eat, Shop, Bank Local: Dakota by Design, bringing art to life
April 1, 2025
At The Bank of Tioga, we believe a community is as strong as its local businesses. That’s why our Eat, Shop, Bank Local blog series highlights the vibrant businesses of northwest North Dakota. This feature showcases the owner of Dakota by Design, Taleah Zaugg.
What's the story behind the owner of Dakota by Design?
Taleah has been an artist for as long as she can remember, recalling her talent from an early age. Her passion for art began as a hobby and has transformed over the years into her life's work.
How did the owner get involved in the business?
Taleah started college intending to become a nurse but switched to the art program after a conversation with her advisor. Today, she is a substitute teacher for three local schools, enjoying the flexibility and ability to mix in her art requests to her schedule.
Another passion includes serving as chair of the local Boy Scouts organization. Her involvement in scouts led her to attend the National Jamboree in Washington DC with five local scouts. The organization noticed her talent and asked her to help paint a local building, where she donated her artwork. Taleah is proud to share her skills through Dakota by Design and believes there should always be a place for creativity in our local communities.
Tell us a little bit about your business:
Dakota by Design has some amazing momentum, specifically in Divide County! Taleah is passionate about public art and wants as many people as possible to view art and conceptualize its value. Here's a few projects and types of artwork Taleah has been completed and are in process:
- Window art: Window art started as an idea Taleah had to apply art to unexpected places. She saw beautiful pictures and displays in larger cities and thought it would be unique to replicate that feeling on Crosby’s Main Street by having art displays on windows and nooks where shoppers and visitors can linger and enjoy something special. A couple of winters ago, some unique window art included a version of the lamp from the Christmas Story movie, along with a beautiful church mural. This past winter, a beautiful horse design was displayed on a business that is visible from the main highway on the outskirts of Crosby.
- Custom murals/drawings: A couple of unique paintings include a U.S.A. flag at Crosby’s baseball field, placed on the side of a concession building. At first glance, this painting looks like your everyday flag; however, as you look closer, the flag appears to move—a unique vision Taleah had to take a timeless painting to the next level. Another recent mural was painted on a wall space at the request of the Divide County Public Library. The painting was created with spray paint, utilizing a graffiti-style technique. This reading nook not only has a custom wall, but Taleah also applied art to two custom chairs. It provides a fun space for children and adults alike to pick up a book, doodle, problem-solve or simply get immersed in their own creativity.
- Custom drawings/paintings: Over the years, numerous family and friends have reached out to Taleah to create their vision. Taleah enjoys different mediums, including watercolors, some oil, charcoal, and pencil. If you have an idea in mind, she is always willing to discuss what she can do to make it a reality with art.
What advice would you give to other people who are interested in starting their own business?
Don’t wait—do it. Owning a business is a big step that sometimes seems scary, but don’t wait…just do it!
Where do you want to be in five years?
Taleah hopes to continue her passion for art and to see remnants of her work everywhere. This community is a place she would love to see art grow!
Location and hours:
Taleah does not have a physical office; however, you can reach her anytime by phone or text. She also notes that Facebook messaging is a great way to reach her. She is excited and willing to sit down with anyone anytime to discuss an idea!
Best contact info & ways to check out her work:
What led you to choose The Bank of Tioga for your business needs?
For Taleah, her choice to bank with The Bank of Tioga was about finding a financial foundation with a small community bank, local to North Dakota. She enjoys having her accounts local, sharing that she wants her money both saved and spent in the community she lives in.
Can you share an instance where our team went above and beyond to assist you?
The Bank of Tioga encompasses the small community values and embodies true friendliness. It reminds me of stopping in to see her neighbor. It is so nice to be greeted by my first name when walking into the bank; it is so powerful.
Anything else you’d like to add?
In 2025, Dakota by Design hopes to make an even bigger impact! Taleah plans to offer window designs as her next project launch. Additionally, she has read several articles about towns nationwide that have invested specifically in their downtowns, creating art nooks, murals and displays. These communities have benefitted with significant increases to their local businesses because of art. Why not Crosby?
At The Bank of Tioga, we IGNITE PROSPERITY® by helping our clients do more with their money. Whether it’s saving a little extra cash each month or accomplishing a long-term strategy, our goal is to help you transform your financial life. Call and schedule an appointment today, one of our team members would love to help you do more with your money at The Bank of Tioga. The Bank of Tioga has two locations in North Dakota. For more information visit thebankoftioga.com or call 701-664-3388 for Tioga or 701-965-6333 for Crosby.