Susie Silook facts for kids
Susie Paallengetaq Silook (born in 1960) is a talented artist from Alaska. She is a carver, sculptor, writer, and actress. Susie comes from a mix of backgrounds: Siberian Yupik, Inupiaq, and Irish. She was born in a place called Gambell, Alaska.
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Life as an Artist and Advocate
Susie Silook creates amazing art using materials like walrus tusk ivory and whalebone. Instead of just carving animals, she often focuses on images of women. She explores the unique and imaginative parts of Yupik culture. Her work sometimes includes old ivory doll shapes from her tribe on St. Lawrence Island.
Art with a Message
Susie is also a strong voice for Indigenous women and artists. She helps people understand the importance of using materials like walrus ivory. For her people, these materials come from animals they use for food. These traditional practices are sometimes affected by new laws. Susie speaks up for the rights of Indigenous people. She believes they should be able to continue their cultural practices. She also thinks they should be part of decisions about protecting nature.
Where to See Her Art
You can find Susie Silook's sculptures in several museums. Her work is displayed at the Anchorage Museum and the Alaska Native Heritage Center. You can also see her art at the de Young Museum and the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art.
Awards and Special Recognition
Susie Silook has received many important awards for her work:
- Governor's Award for an Individual Artist (2000)
- Eiteljorg Fellowship (2001)
- United States Artists Rasmuson Fellow (2007)
