Alaskan culture, like other indigenous cultures on our planet, is rich in artwork and craftsmanship. These works of art, often depicting local fauna and activities, are striking and showcase the native skills. When trade was introduced to the native people of Alaska in the 17th century, many crafted items were valued for their practical uses, such as clothing or tools. However, over time, these items gained more popularity as decorative pieces.
(c. 1860) 1
When hunters kill a walrus, every part is utilized. By combining subsistence harvesting with a cash flow, natives manage to balance the ever-increasing cost of living. A 2017 survey conducted by tribal leaders at Kawerak, Inc., revealed that native artists had an average household income of $28,000. However, a third of the artists who participated in the survey reported earning less than $5,000 in 2017. (This is the most recent survey conducted.)
Under the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972, the sale and trade of walrus ivory and even Polar bear products are allowed, provided that the item is a product purchased within the United States and meets the criteria of an authentic Alaskan Native handicraft. However, the implementation of specific regulations and state laws has inadvertently hindered the recognition and sale of native artists’ products. In 2021, several states enacted overly restrictive bans on ivory sales, including walrus ivory. All this confusion no doubt makes it increasingly difficult for artists to continue on, even inadvertently causing natives to be wrongfully prosecuted.
States with broad ivory bans: California, Hawaii, New Jersey, New York, Oregon and Washington.
These craftsmanship skills, passed down through generations for millennia, have remained largely unknown outside of Alaska due to its isolation. To ensure the preservation of these skills and the stability of indigenous communities, it’s crucial to promote their growth, education, and public awareness.
(Disclaimer: I am not a professional! This is a hobby and passion of mine. All things said here are my strong opinion and are no way intended to make claims or put any one party down.)
Sources:
- https://kawerak.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/FINAL_2_kawerak_bering_artA42.pdf
- https://www.fws.gov/sites/default/files/documents/news-attached-files/factsheet-can-i-sell-it.pdf
- https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alaska_Native_art
- https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Walrus_ivory
- http://www.ahgupuk.com/index.html
- https://walrusivory.org/current-laws/
Bone & Co. 