“Women of the Kuskokwim”

A Yupik woman and child sit upon a birch log. The Kuskokwim mountain range and river flow in a frame behind her. Two people gill-netting from a skiff above her hand symbolizing the interconnectedness of providing for family. Sockeye salmon cascade through her as the river becomes her dress. Showcasing the subsistence culture of Alaska and salmon as the life blood of our communities.

Marine rope forms the frame for Alaska's largest coastline in the country. Nootka lupine, fireweed and devils club on her pillow honor the foraging and medicinal plants from all across the state. Eagle, grizzly, moose and wolf tracks are for our large game and frame the words "Fish, Family, Freedom" with fish hooks. The ulus and Yupik eye in the top corners are to pay respects to the indigenous of Alaska, culture preservation and Mary Peltola's dedication to putting Alaska first.

The Alaska flags seal the painting, incorporating Benny Benson's iconic design. Including this, shares love with the creativity and dreams of the children of Alaska. To quote our iconic anthem "Eight stars of gold on a field of blue, [..],The blue of the sea, the evening sky, the mountain lakes and the flowers nearby" With the "Women of the Kuskokwim" painting I strove to create an imagery that would incorporate all of these themes, with a piece that our communities could relate to and celebrate the principals of Fish, Family and Freedom.

Acrylic on canvas- 30×40 inches