Summary
Haida master carver Lee Wallace and his apprentices have embarked on a creative collaboration to carve a totem pole as part of the Sealaska Heritage Institute’s Kootéeyaa Deiyí totem pole trail along the Juneau waterfront. This project is funded by a $2.9 million grant from the Mellon Foundation, which supports the installation of 30 totem poles and bronze masks that honor the diverse Native groups of Alaska.
This initiative highlights the importance of apprenticeships in the arts, allowing emerging artists to gain hands-on experience while working alongside seasoned masters. It showcases how apprenticeship programs can foster cultural heritage and provide meaningful career pathways in traditional crafts, benefiting both the community and the apprentices involved.
Why this matters for apprenticeships
This story illustrates the vital role that registered apprenticeship programs play in preserving cultural traditions while providing practical skill development for apprentices. By engaging with experienced artisans, apprentices not only learn their craft but also contribute to the rich tapestry of their community's heritage.
Made in the USA.