Project: Alaska Native Art Classes
Grantee: Qutekcak Native Tribe
Written by: Mariah Johnson, Program Coordinator, Qutekcak Native Tribe
The Qutekcak Native Tribe received funds from The CIRI Foundation through a “Journey To What Matters” project grant. The tribe used the funds to hold weekly traditional art classes attended by tribal and community members of all ages. Students carved war paddles from spruce, made authentic shrimp pots from willow branches, sewed traditional Alaskan kuspuks and made Ulu knives from gathered wood and shale. These classes were taught by Alaska Native Artists and have been a huge asset to the tribe and the community. We owe their success to the generous support of organizations like The CIRI Foundation.