Contributed by Charice Chambers
Native Aleut artist, Alfred Naumoff Jr., grew up in Kodiak’s Old Harbor village, and in high school became interested in native culture, launching a lifelong pursuit. With the help of his uncle and a high school teacher, Naumoff constructed his first native kayak.
He continues to this day to perfect his style. His skill development and attention to detail have paid off: One of his kayaks is on display at the Pratt Institute in New York.
Naumoff does not limit his artistic pursuits to kayak construction. He is a prolific carver, mask maker and jewelry artist. Currently he has the distinction of having works hanging at the Boulogne-Sur-Mer’s museum in France and other artwork hanging in the American Indian Art Museum in New York. In Alaska, his works can be found on display in Kodiak at the Baranof Museum, in the common area of UAA, Anchorage, at the King Salmon Exhibit Center and in many corporate buildings throughout Alaska. He is currently working on several massive mask projects for private clients.
Much of Naumoff’s inspiration comes from the ancient native petroglyphs found at Alitak on Kodiak Island. Their influence can be seen in much of his jewelry and carving. When asked about his inspiration for his many projects, he is quick to point out that they all come from historic native cultural practices. Even the back sides of his masks include mouth bars, the traditional method for holding a mask in place while wearing it clenched between the teeth.
The Mat-Su Senior Services Gift Shop is currently displaying a collection of his jewelry and framed wall hangings.
We have a strong selection of native art including baskets, jewelry, masks, carvings and native dolls. Located in the Matsu Senior Services Center across from Palmer Junior Middle School at 1132 S. Chugach Street, the gift shop is open from 10am to 4pm, Monday through Friday throughout the holiday season for your shopping convenience.
As always, prices for these outstanding art pieces are kept at a very reasonable level to make them available to Alaska’s seniors. The shop invites the community to enjoy these senior advantages.
