Kathleen Carlo-Kendall facts for kids

Kathleen Carlo-Kendall is a talented artist from Alaska. She was born in Tanana, Alaska. She is a professional carver and a member of the Koyukon Athabaskan people.

Early Life and Artistic Beginnings

Kathleen Carlo-Kendall was born in Tanana, Alaska. Her parents were Poldine and William "Bill" Carlo. When she was five years old, her family moved to Fairbanks. She still lives there today.

Kathleen started creating art at the Native Arts Center. This center is part of the University of Alaska Fairbanks. Her teacher there was Ronald Senungetuk. Kathleen has loved art since she was in high school.

Developing Her Art Style

Kathleen's artwork often tells a story. Sometimes it represents an event or a spirit. Other times, her art is inspired by the natural shape of the wood. She earned a special degree in Fine Arts in 1984. This degree focused on working with metals. However, Kathleen sees herself more as a woodworker than a metalsmith.

Kathleen's Art Career

After getting her degree, Kathleen became a well-known artist. She was one of the few women carving masks at that time. Besides making masks, Kathleen also enjoys working with wood panels. She also creates art using metals. She has even done ice sculpting!

Since 1990, Kathleen has taught art. She works as a Native Arts Carving Instructor. This is part of the University of Alaska Summer Fine Arts Camp. She has won many awards for her amazing artwork. Her pieces are displayed in important places. These include the University of Alaska State Museum. Her art is also in the Anchorage Museum of History and Art. Many private collectors own her work too.

Unique Artistic Style

Kathleen Carlo-Kendall uses both metal and wood in her art. She combines the strong, hard metal with the soft wood. This creates a beautiful and interesting look. She sees herself as a modern Native artist. She does not follow only traditional styles.

Her people, the Koyukon, did not use masks very much. So, Kathleen found ideas from other cultures. She was inspired by the sculptures of Yup'ik masks. This helped her create her own unique style.