This the first time I had been able to put a lady dancer in this fashion. This represents all those nuliacung’s who have become successful leaders. Normally, Alaskan Yup'ik ladies do not jump around and dance wildly in this style, unless maybe she is teasing her “Ui’cung” (male teasing cousin) as humorously as possible, trying to outdo her male opponent. Instead of using wavy reindeer hair dance fans, she is using feathered dance fans, usually men would be dancing with them. This symbolizes women taking a hold of positions usually held by men in the past. It is wonderful to experience everyone in a good happy mood, all laughing, some so hard they end up crying happy tears. Here’s to you ladies!
- 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: Kuskokwim driftwood, Mekoryuk reindeer hair, turkey feathered dance fans and acrylic paint.
Nuliacung Dances 3D Art
As a child, being up close to the performance was a beautiful and thrilling experience. You could literally feel the wind created by their dance fans. Everyone moved in unison to the rhythm of the drum, guided by the conductor’s voice, which led the singers into the next verse. The conductor, holding his dance stick adorned with beautiful figurines, kept perfect rhythm.
I could hear “Apasugaq” Augustine Heavy leading the drumming, singing, and dancing. His strong voice, half-singing and half-talking, rose above everyone, reminiscent of blues or rock and roll. The entire group moved vigorously as one.
