Native Arts Studies Program

Join us for classes and workshops in Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian artistic traditions, led by experienced instructors.

The Totem Heritage Center’s Native Arts Studies Program is dedicated to perpetuating Northwest Coast Native art and tradition. Classes are offered annually in weaving, basketry, design, carving, and regalia making.

Native Arts Studies Program

Join us for classes and workshops in Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian artistic traditions, led by experienced instructors.

The Totem Heritage Center’s Native Arts Studies Program is dedicated to perpetuating Northwest Coast Native art and tradition. Classes are offered annually in weaving, basketry, design, carving, and regalia making.

A CULTURAL CENTER FOR

Artistic Traditions

The Totem Heritage Center serves as a cultural center for the artistic traditions of the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian people. The Center offers annual classes in the Northwest Coast arts including carving, basketry, weaving, and regalia making. Visiting and local instructors accomplished in the Northwest Coast Native style of art teach these classes to perpetuate and strengthen the traditional arts through their students. Students may work independently, pursue a Certificate of Merit, and earn University of Alaska credit.

Whether your interest in Northwest Coast art is new or you’ve been weaving, carving, or making regalia for years, the Totem Heritage Center’s Native Arts Studies Program has a class to meet your needs. Classes usually run for one to two weeks October through April.

2025 Fall Class Schedule will be announced in September

REGISTRATION: Fill out the registration form, save, and email to MarniRickelmann@ketchikan.gov.
KIC STUDENTS: Click here for a downloadable Esther Shea Cultural Studies Program scholarship application.

We look forward to seeing you in class!

Interested in teaching with us?

Fill out the Native Arts Studies Program Instructor Application and email it to MarniRickelmann@ketchikan.gov or stop by the Heritage Center and speak with staff.

VIEW PAST CLASS SCHEDULES

RECOGNIZING EXCELLENCE

Certificate of Merit

Be part of a proud legacy that celebrates accomplished artists dedicated to upholding First Nations creative traditions. Native Arts Studies Program students can earn an award for excellence in Carving, Weaving, or Regalia that honors learning and sharing knowledge and the strength of their work.

The Certificate of Merit is also a record of achievement that is a helpful tool for further opportunities including scholarships, grants, teaching positions, additional education, representation, or exhibition in galleries and museums, and more.