I spent most of my elementary school years in Anchorage, and those days

of Chinook winds, rainbow trout, and adventures near Flattop Mt. are frostbitten soundly into my mind. It was really fun for me to illustrate this very Alaskan book and to explore the Tlingit style of totem art that the author mentions in her text.

I didn't live in the region where these particular totems are usually found, but I do have many memories of native beadwork and artistry from other parts of the state. I have done my best to both respect and to animate the traditional totem forms.

The author's note:
For more than 200 years, the indigenous cultures of the Pacific Northwest and Southeast Alaska have carved totem poles to illustrate the stories of their clans. Wrangell, Sitka, Ketchikan, Seattle, and Vancouver Island are some of the best places to see these magnificent works of art.

4.9.2006
TOTEM TALE: A TALL STORY FROM ALASKA hits the shelves!

Written by Deb Vanasse and
Published by Sasquatch Books
ISBN: 1-57061-439-3
32pp Trade Paper

To enjoy last year's collection, featuring the work of my friend and fellow artist, Mike Fitzpatrick, please visit the Original Art Exchange located in my portfolio pages. Enjoy!