Decorated Ketchikan carvers and apprentices work on totem poles to be raised in Juneau

Summary

Renowned Ketchikan carver Nathan Jackson and his son, Jackson Polys, are leading a team of four apprentices in creating two totem poles for the Sealaska Heritage Institute’s Totem Pole Trail in Juneau. The apprentices are gaining hands-on experience and learning traditional carving techniques while contributing to a culturally significant project that will be unveiled next year.

This initiative not only showcases the artistry and storytelling inherent in Tlingit culture but also highlights the importance of apprenticeship programs in preserving Indigenous traditions and skills. By engaging younger generations in this work, the project fosters a deeper understanding of cultural heritage and creates pathways for careers in art and craftsmanship.

Why this matters for apprenticeships

This story illustrates the critical role of registered apprenticeships in preserving traditional skills and fostering cultural heritage. By empowering apprentices to learn from esteemed artisans, programs like this one create invaluable career pathways and contribute to the sustainability of Indigenous craftsmanship.