Artwork copyright Frank Fulmer. Photo courtesy of the artist.

Artwork copyright Frank Fulmer. Photo courtesy of the artist.

Eagle Dancer, 1999

Frank Fulmer
(American | Tlingit, born 1953)

Location: Olympic College - Shelton, Shelton

ABOUT THE ARTWORK

Native American artist Frank Fulmer created the hieroglyphic sculpture Eagle Dancer from old growth western redcedar wood and abalone shells. It was carved using traditional tools. It depicts a Tlingit (Native Alaskan) chief dressed in ceremonial regalia, who transforms into an eagle as he performs. Stories from the Chookaneidie Clan of the artist's Tlingit heritage inspired the sculpture. The clan was forced to move from their homeland of Glacier Bay, Alaska, during the advance of the ice age hundreds of years ago. After Glacier Bay became a national park, the clan's traditional hunting rights in the area were revoked. The artist Fulmer notes, "To this day, the Tlingit Chookaneidie people carry on the fight against the U.S. Government to gain back our identity and legacy which is one with Sit'Geey, our homeland that has rightfully belonged to us for over 9,000 years.

This artwork was acquired for the State Art Collection in partnership with Olympic College.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Artist and master carver Frank Fulmer (Tlingit) creates traditional Hieroglyphic Art of the Pacific Northwest Coast. He believes that "it is his destiny help bring honor and glory to his ancestors through his art work." He is of Tlingit (Native Alaskan) heritage.