Rising Stars: Meet Kiyo Taylor

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kiyo Taylor.

Hi Kiyo, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My silversmithing started while living with a Navajo Family and attending part of high school on the Reservation.

Afterward, I took classes at community college, worked in a bit and spur makers shop, and attended an engraving class in Alpine, Texas. I also worked in the horse industry and lived on a few ranches in southern Arizona.

I had a bad auto accident while attending college, I started making silver tack and jewelry to sell to support myself after my accident.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Silversmithing and being self-employed are not always easy. The price of silver went very high around 2009-13. It made it very hard to buy materials and sell anything.

I’ve often supplemented my creative endeavors with other jobs on the side. Before Instagram and Facebook, I would travel and set up trade shows. I was often sleeping in my truck and traveling on a wing and a prayer.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’ve developed a unique style over time. People say they can recognize what I’ve made when they see it. I specialize in handcrafted, original designs with a western flair.

I incorporate overlay, stamping, and hand engraving. I love designing. Some of my work has been collected by horsemen and women that compete at National Finals Rodeo and other horse events. These are pieces of silver tack that go on bridles and saddles.

What was your favorite childhood memory?
I’ve always loved horses, so anything that had to do with learning or being around horses is what made me the happiest.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.kiyotaylorsilverwork.com
• Instagram: @Horsecampdesignstudio Kiyo Taylor
• Facebook: @horsecampdesignstudio