Alix Mosieur  Tsunka – Witco “Crazy Horse” Oglala Sioux 1841-1877

Alix Mosieur is a Native American artist known for her mixed media artwork, particularly portraits of Native American chiefs, often on Myrtlewood. She is of Nez Perce and Blackfeet descent. Her husband, Bruce, has been instrumental in her artistic career, handling the finish work on her gourd and wood pieces.

Tasunka Witko (Crazy Horse)
Oglala Lakota Sioux Chief
c. 1841 – September 5, 1877

Crazy Horse, known in Lakota as Tȟašúŋke Witkó, was a legendary Oglala Lakota war leader and one of the most revered Native American figures of the 19th century. Born around 1841 near present-day Rapid City, South Dakota, he rose to prominence for his courage, strategic brilliance, and unwavering resistance to U.S. encroachment on Lakota lands.

Fiercely protective of his people’s way of life, Crazy Horse played a leading role in many key battles during the Plains Wars. He is best known for his decisive part in the Battle of the Little Bighorn (1876), where a coalition of Lakota, Cheyenne, and Arapaho warriors defeated General George Custer’s 7th Cavalry.

Resisting efforts to be photographed or assimilated, Crazy Horse remained a deeply spiritual figure, guided by visions and Lakota values. He surrendered in 1877 under assurances of peace, but was fatally bayoneted while in custody at Fort Robinson, Nebraska, on September 5, 1877.

To this day, Crazy Horse remains a symbol of Indigenous resistance, cultural pride, and the enduring spirit of the Lakota people.