b'Art & Travel Native Art of AlaskaExploring indigenous cultureTotem Bight State Historic Site, KetchikanThe paintings, sculptures, and wood carvings of Alaskas indigenous artistsparticularly of the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian peoplescan be seen throughout the Last frontier state. Alaskan art comes in many forms, from magnificent totem poles to beadwork, murals to carved ivory, and basketry to Chilkat weaving. The states contemporary native artists continue to produce exceptional artworks experimenting with different forms. we explore a small part of Alaskas native culture through indigenous art in three cities. ketcHikantotem poles are an integral part of traditional Alaskan culture. They are symbolic art created by the first nations of the coastal Pacific Northwest. Totem poles are scattered all around ketchikan, a city at the southernmost entrance to the Inside Passage. These represent the ancestral traditions of the Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshian peoples. Visit the ketchikan Museums totem Heritage center, where more than 30 poles from the 19th century are displayed. Each majestic pole has its own story and is a unique piece carved into a red cedar log and coloured with natural pigments. Though sacred and revered, totem poles are not considered religious symbols. To witness totem carving as a living art form, head to saxman totem park, a few kilometres south of ketchikan, in a Tlingit village. Step into the magical carving shed and observe artisans creating wonderful shapes of bears, whales, eagles, beavers, ravens, and more. Live demonstrations and even classes and tours are available. Sixteen kilometres north of ketchikan is totem bight state Historical park, Eagle totem pole, Ketchikan where restored totems dot a nature trail in a picturesque setting near the forest and ocean. 54 \x1a HAYES JARVIS'