Tava Kairaiuak

My name is Tava Maliaaq Kairaiuak. I am Dena’ina, Yup’ik and Aleut. My family comes from the villages of Nondalton, Chefornak and Karluk. I first began making art as a child, drawing and painting. As I grew up, I learned more and more about traditional arts. I learned how to skin sew, tan salmon skin, carve ivory and bead. Now, I try to incorporate traditional materials into most of my work. I am thankful to my family and community for teaching me and giving me the inspiration I need to create.

This piece shows myself as a baby and my grandmother, Katherine. In 2014, my grandma passed away unexpectedly but when I think of home, this picture comes to mind. The picture was taken in 2002 in the village of Pilot Point, the place she called home for a very long time. When I think of my grandma, I also think about the women in my life, the matriarchs. My community is stronger, more loving and safer with them. My momma, aunties and chedas make me feel at peace. This is what community is for me, to be with them.