There are all types of scheduled events held at the center and the Christmas Bazaar is definitely one to check out! Native vendors filled up all of the available space in the building, their tables brimming with beautiful beadery, hand made seal skin mittens and gloves, parkas with glorious fur, ivory carvings, native plant salves, soaps and herbs. Jewelry was everywhere, and the art, it was so beautiful!
As I was cruising, I came across a table full of boxes of framed prints created by local artist Helen Simeonoff. Helen is Sugpiaq (Alutiiq) from Kodiak, AK. As an artist and art major, I have a great deal of appreciation for someone who has chosen to be different especially if they have created a signature style. Helen has mastered artistic style!
Her works are some of the most colorful, creative, beautiful watercolors that I have ever seen. I really had a hard time choosing, but I left the Center with four and they added just the right touch here in my new home. What I really enjoy is the way she used color. It's as if the Aurora has come alive in her subjects as well as in the background. And her depiction of animals is just incredible!
Please do yourself a favor and check out her website by clicking on this link and viewing all of her collection. http://alaskakodiakwatercolor.com/
Wow, she is talented. I enjoy reading about your journey. I would LOVE to come visit you and see Alaska again! It's a beautiful place!
ReplyDeleteSad News...ANCHORAGE, Alaska — The Alutiiq Museum has confirmed that famous Alaska Native artist Helen Jane Simeonoff has passed away.
ReplyDeleteSimeonoff was known for her vibrant watercolor paintings depicting images from her life. According to her website she was born in Kodiak and studied art in San Diego, Calif. before studying watercolor painting in Adak.
After working at the Anchorage Police Department for six years, Simeonoff became a full-time artist to follow her passion for Alaska Native culture.