WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of the Interior, Indian Arts and Crafts Board (IACB), has published a new consumer education brochure to promote the creative work of Alaska Native walrus ivory carvers and highlight the inherent cultural importance, beauty, and value of these carvings. The Alaska Native Ivory publication is produced in collaboration with the Alaska State Council on the Arts, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and Eskimo Walrus Commission.
“The Alaska Native Ivory brochure is intended to highlight the aesthetic, cultural, and economic importance of Alaska Native ivory carving, particularly in the Alaska Native coastal communities, and to help delineate between walrus ivory and the ban on elephant ivory,” states IACB Vice Chairperson Rose Fosdick (Nome Eskimo Community).
The brochure cover features the “Identities” sculpture by renowned St. Lawrence Island Yupik master artist Susie Silook. Outstanding work by five additional Alaska Native ivory carvers drawn from the IACB’s Southern Plains Indian Museum collections, as well as from project partner University of Alaska Museum of the North collections, also complement the publication.
The brochure also offers consumer tips on purchasing and transporting authentic Alaska Native ivory artwork, educational facts on ivory types and sources, and information on the Eskimo Walrus Commission.
“Alaska Natives are among our country’s most skilled artisans,” states U.S. Department of the Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke. “Before you purchase Alaska Native art or craftwork, please be sure that you are buying an authentic Alaska Native made product.”
The IACB promotes the production, sale, and protection of authentic Alaska Native and American Indian art and craftwork through its three museums and exhibition programs, on-line Source Directory of authentic Native American art businesses, intellectual property rights protection and consumer education activities, and enforcement of the Indian Arts and Crafts Act -- a truth-in-marketing statute.
To learn more and download a free copy of the Alaska Native Ivory brochure, visit the Indian Arts and Crafts Board's website or call them toll free at 1-888-ART-FAKE.