Douglas was born September 27, 1943 in Pine Ridge, South Dakota. He is an enrolled member of the Oglala (Sioux) tribe which is located in Pine Ridge, South Dakota. Douglas philosophically believes that Native American artwork should reflect concern for Indian heritage and traditions. He feels the need to communicate to Indian people through art the way his forefathers lived. After extensive research, Douglas, taught himself the art of Sioux lazy stitch beadwork. Douglas currently designs and develops contemporary Lakota Sioux beadwork and artifacts replicating Sioux regalia. Some of his creations include cradleboards, peace pipes, bags, axes and shirts. Douglas' work has been advertised and promoted in magazines such as American Indian Art, Smithsonian, and South West Art and The New Yorker. Douglas has received many special recognitions and awards including taking first place in 1989 at the SWAIA 68th Annual Indian Market.

To this day Douglas still creates at home out of a bedroom converted to a studio. He also works on a non-profit Co-op for Indian Arts and Crafts people. A collection of Doug's beadwork can be viewed and purchased at Oneida Sky, Fine Art and Native American Collectibles Gallery at Turning Stone.