Art in Alaska

Art in Alaska

Art in Alaska Articles

For most people, thoughts of Alaska bring up images of a wild and colourful land full of mountains, oceans and wildlife. Many might be surprised to know that there is a cultural life as well, and art in Alaska is plentiful.

Something about the isolation of the north and the long, cold winters brings out the creative souls in many who visit here. Native Alaskans and First Nations people have always been surrounded by the grandeur, and their culture reflects it. The song of the north is heard well outside of these borders, and many who come to visit never leave. Often then their creativity blossoms, and they find the perfect muse in a land that is as unrelentingly beautiful as it is harsh.

An interesting aspect of the north is that the change of seasons provides the perfect rhythm for many artists and writers. The hustle of the summer, when everyone takes advantage of the mild weather to explore the land, spend as much time outdoors as possible, take care of chores and such, is contrasted with the slow pace of the long winter.

The winter season provides the perfect opportunity for reflection, as well as long uninterrupted hours to hone ones craft. This unique aspect of the north is reflected in the quality of much of the art in Alaska.

Alaskan art is nearly always imbued with the spirit of the land. Indeed it would be hard not to be, surrounded by raw nature and weather. The frontier feel of the place is a trait that even brief visitors pick up, and those who live it find their work becomes an extension of that.

Much of the art in Alaska is representational. Sometimes that is in order to cater to tourists, and earn a living. Other times it is simply an attempt to capture something of the beauty of the place, and contain it within a painting or sculpture. For those seeking a souvenir, much of this art works for that purpose, acting as a kind of idealized photograph.

Native art, both traditional and contemporary, tends to be less representational and more abstract. Often the themes are the same, although native art has less tendency to landscapes, and more animal representations. The shapes and colours are often exaggerated, and this can often make the art quite bold and imaginative. Native art, especially traditional art, is often depicting scenes from ancient legends, handed down through generations of storytelling.

There is even a contemporary art scene in Alaska, centred mostly in Homer and Anchorage. Many young people try to find unique expression, and they are often attracted to creating works of art that are more confrontational in nature. And yet, even here the themes of the land often creep in. Since the urban centres are so small compared to the south, the contemporary art has a harder time finding a voice in a landscape so defined by nature.

Whatever your own particular taste, art in Alaska is a thriving culture that should be seen and enjoyed. Take time during your visit to see some of the many Alaska art galleries that dot the state, and earmark a few bills to take home that perfect reminder of your trip of a lifetime to this magical place.