The Alaska Art Alliance is your must-go destination for authentic, handcrafted pieces made by Native Alaskans. Their mission is simple - to support and promote Native Alaskan artists by providing them a place to work and sell their art while also promoting their culture and each other. They nurture art and they lift each other up.
In a world of AI slop and mass produced junk the Alaska Art Alliance provides a much needed infusion of craftsmanship practiced for generations. A fine layer of dust seems to cling to everything in the store, but it is not the dust of neglect; it is the dust of constant hard work. They have a wide variety of items - art, pins, jewelry, carvings, and scrimshaws and much more!
I will admit I wasn't certain when I first passed the shop as the retractable gate and the locked door made it look uninviting. My friend tried the door, found it locked, and walked away leaving me barely time to read the sign that said "if locked call or text number listed" as they would be in the back working. The next day we returned, and after informing my friend what the sign said, prepared to call but found the door unlocked.
There were multiple cases full of different items. The workshop in the back looked busy. After being in so manny tourist shops it just felt nice being somewhere that felt real.
The gentleman who assisted us was warm and informative. He told us about the artisans, the mission, and all they were doing. My eyes fell upon a jade bead necklace and I was captivated. I had been looking at jade all trip fairly unimpressed because they largely were flat green and didn't interest me. This necklace had character with inclusions and variations in the color. Each bead was unique. There were two necklaces and I opted for the smaller since being short the larger was a bit long to wear practically. The larger, tho, was epically beautiful as well!
We ended up buying that necklace and a handcrafted pin. I am very pleased with our purchases and would recommend anyone who seeks authentic pieces to come to this Art Alliance. read more