Gene Chilton II

Gene Chilton II is a Tlingit from “Tlingit Aani.” He is a member of the Deisheetaan, Beaver clan, and is from the Raven House, Yeil Hit of Angoon, Alaska. Gene was born in Juneau, Alaska. He grew up in Angoon up to age seven and then moved back to Juneau. As a young man he commercial fished in southeast Alaska.

Gene began his career as a silver engraver in 1978, studying under master carver Ed Kasko of Klukwan, Alaska. He was certified in stone stetting and repairs by the Gemological Institute of America in 1988.

Gene has become a prolific and well-known artist, working in both silver and gold, and has a great interest in perpetuating the art form through teaching. Gene currently lives in Juneau with his wife Jennifer, and their five children.