About the Artist

‘Chaska’- Myron Taylor is Vietnam veteran who is a fifth generation pipe maker, and has been carving pipestone for over thirty years. His name, ‘Chaska’ has the meaning of ‘eldest male child.’ His grandfather, Joe Taylor, came to the area in 1904 and was one of the most active quarries and carvers of all time. A master artist, he specializes in effigy and silver inlaid pipes, as well as outstanding examples of many other traditional pipe styles. In the past, he has worked for the National Park Service, and has worked as a seasonal craft demonstrator for the Pipestone Indian Shrine Association. Myron is a member of the Santee Dakota Nation.