
Doug, Yaa nak.ch, is a Tlingit Indian. He is of Raven
moiety, Yéil, and a member of the Deisheetaan Clan, Beaver Clan, and is from
the Raven House, Yéil Hit, of Angoon, Alaska.
His name, Yaa nak.ch, is an old name derived from
the Raven House of Angoon. As is the case for many Tlingit names, the
meaning or English expression does not exist.
Doug
was born and raised in Juneau, Alaska, and carves primarily in silver, gold,
wood, ivory, bone and soapstone.
Doug's designs are
Tlingit style and are traditional in form. In 1979, Doug began his wood
carving apprenticeship under Ray Peck, a member of the Deisheetaan Clan of
Angoon and an established carver of totemic and panel carvings. Later Doug
began working under the direction of
Walter Bennett, also a local well-known
carver.
In 1990, Doug began to work with silver and
gold engravings under the watchful eye of his brother, Gene Chyilton, Sgunax
yaa.Doug has since begun developing his skills independently.
All of his works of art are original. Each design, totem,
mask and plaque is a unique treasure. Doug takes great pride in continuing
his Tlingit ancestral art.