A new exhibit running through Oct. 9 at the Alaska State Museum in Juneau traces the history of sacred textiles employed by Tsimshian, Haida and Tlingit weavers of Alaska and First Nations descent to make traditional “Raven’s Tail” and “Chilkat” robes.
Two dozen robes featured in the exhibit, woven from plush white mountain goat fur, were seen by early Euro-American visitors to the northern Northwest Coast when they first came in contact with First Nations and Alaska Native people. The robes are used in sacred ceremonies to display the history and crests of different clans.
The complexity of the work requires a lifelong commitment and today just a few weavers are carrying these traditions into the 21st century.
The exhibit was developed by the state museum in collaboration with a curatorial team of internationally renowned weavers. Major funding for the exhibit was provided by the CIRI Foundation, Sealaska Heritage, Raventail Weavers Guild, King Family Trust and the Juneau Community Foundation.
Due to COVID-19 pandemic restrictions the number of visitors allowed in museum galleries at one time is limited. Make reservations in advance by calling 907-465-2901.
