Native Arts Studies Program

Join us for classes and workshops in Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian artistic traditions, led by experienced instructors.

The Totem Heritage Center’s Native Arts Studies Program is dedicated to perpetuating Northwest Coast Native art and tradition. Classes are offered annually in weaving, basketry, design, carving, and regalia making.

Native Arts Studies Program

Join us for classes and workshops in Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian artistic traditions, led by experienced instructors.

The Totem Heritage Center’s Native Arts Studies Program is dedicated to perpetuating Northwest Coast Native art and tradition. Classes are offered annually in weaving, basketry, design, carving, and regalia making.

A CULTURAL CENTER FOR

Artistic Traditions

The Totem Heritage Center serves as a cultural center for the artistic traditions of the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian people. The Center offers annual classes in the Northwest Coast arts including carving, basketry, weaving, and regalia making. Visiting and local instructors accomplished in the Northwest Coast Native style of art teach these classes to perpetuate and strengthen the traditional arts through their students. Students may work independently, pursue a Certificate of Merit, and earn University of Alaska credit.

Whether your interest in Northwest Coast art is new or you’ve been weaving, carving, or making regalia for years, the Totem Heritage Center’s Native Arts Studies Program has a class to meet your needs. Classes usually run for one to two weeks throughout the winter and spring. Classes for the Fall 2023 Season will be released individually.

UPCOMING CLASSES:
Drum Making & Design with instructor Kevin Clevenger - Second Class Offered!, February 6 - 17, 2024
Introduction to the Woodshop with instructor Steve Thomas, February 10 - 11, 2024
Beginning Carving with instructor Michael Milne, February 20 - February 29, 2024
Ulu Workshop with instructor Bifrost Blacksmithing, February 24, 2024
Copper Knife Workshop with instructor Bifrost Blacksmithing, March 2, 2024
Mixed-Level Regalia (Child-Size Button Robe, Vest, or Tunic) with instructor Janice Jackson, March 5 - March 30, 2024
Intermediate/Advanced Cedar Bark Weaving (Glass Bottles) with instructor Kandi McGilton, April 1 - April 11, 2024
Devil's Club Processing with instructor Merle Hawkins, April 20 & April 27, 2024
Cedar Bark Harvesting & Processing, TBD

UPCOMING YOUTH CLASSES:
Spring Break Cedar Bark Weaving for Youth with instructor Christina Weber, March 11 - 15, 2024

All classes are for adults (18 and older) unless otherwise described. Seasonal class brochures are available in September.

To register for classes, call (907) 225-5900, complete an application or youth class application and email to teresad@ktn-ak.us, or stop by the Totem Heritage Center during open hours.

VIEW PAST CLASS SCHEDULES

OPPORTUNITY AWAITS

Scholarship

The purpose of this scholarship is to provide youth (under 18 years of age) with the opportunity to explore their talents and gain new skills in Northwest Coast art and design. Available for Spring Break classes only.