Al'a our big sister is waving her dance fans made of reindeer hair from Mekoryuk Alaska. A small village of 200 is the only place that herds reindeer in Alaska.
- Outside dimensions 11-5/8" x 14-5/8" x 1-3/8"
- Includes Ivory Mat with 8x10 opening
- Black Frame
- Includes glass and backing
- Comes ready for wall mounting
- Will accept 4-ply mat board
- Mixed media: Reindeer hair and acrylic
Al'a 3D Art
The Yup’ik people have a rich cultural heritage, with festivals and ceremonies deeply intertwined with their spiritual beliefs.
Al’a, the eldest sister, learned essential skills from her mother, mastering the art of preparing animals, fish, and birds for preservation—cutting, drying, and caring for food to meet the family’s needs. During festivals, Al’a danced, leading her siblings in celebration.
All these activities centered around Ellarpiim Yua, emphasizing gratitude for the gifts provided. Interestingly, some Yup’ik individuals believe that Jesus was Ellarpiim Yua all along, bridging their traditional beliefs with Christian spirituality.