Susie Silook facts for kids
Susie Paallengetaq Silook (born 1960) is a talented artist, sculptor, writer, and actress. She is from Siberian Yupik, Inupiaq, and Irish backgrounds. Susie was born in Gambell, Alaska.
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Susie Silook's Artistic Journey
Susie Silook creates her art mainly from walrus tusk ivory and whalebone. Instead of making common animal carvings, she focuses on images of women. Her art often shows the strength and stories of Native women. She also explores amazing tales from Yupik culture. She uses old ivory doll shapes from her tribe on St. Lawrence Island in her artwork.
Advocacy for Indigenous Artists
Susie Silook is a strong voice for Indigenous women and artists. She helps people understand the importance of using traditional materials like walrus ivory. These materials come from animals that her people use for food. She explains that some rules about ivory have made it harder for Indigenous communities to use these important resources. Susie believes that Indigenous people should have their rights respected in efforts to protect nature. She works to show how her community lives in balance with their environment.
Where to See Her Art
You can see Susie Silook's sculptures in several museums. These include the Anchorage Museum, the Alaska Native Heritage Center, the de Young Museum, and the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art.
Awards and Special Recognition
Susie Silook has received many awards for her amazing work:
- Governor's Award for an Individual Artist (2000)
- Eiteljorg Fellowship (2001)
- United States Artists Rasmuson Fellow (2007)
