Tlingit and Gwich’in Athabaskan artist Skweit Jessie Morgan, an apprentice with master artist Jenny Lyn Smith of Northwest Coast design, offers unique jewelry pieces. The 2024 apprenticeship program is made possible by the Chilkoot Indian Association in Haines, Alaska, providing Skweit with the invaluable opportunity to hone her craft under the guidance of a revered mentor. Skweit specializes in earrings, pendants, and bracelets carved in silver using the traditional hand-push technique, a method that imbues each piece with a distinct touch of authenticity and artistry.
Northwest Coast Art is not merely an artistic expression for Skweit; it is a profound method of connection and resistance. Through her work, she communicates the stories, traditions, and resilience of her people. Her mentor, Jenny Lyn Smith, learned from some of the most prominent artists, including Leo Jacobs, Sr., John Hagen, Nathan Jackson, Johnnie Avotock, and Ed Kasko at Alaska Indian Arts. These artists have been pivotal in revitalizing Northwest Coast Art, ensuring that this rich cultural heritage continues to thrive. Skweit, a Lukaax.adi (Raven Sockeye) from Lḵóot Ḵwáan under the G̱eisán House and a Dakl’weidí yadí (child of the Eagle Killerwhale clan), is dedicated to being part of this artistic resurgence, aiming to preserve and perpetuate this vital cultural expression for future generations.
Skweit’s educational journey has been extensive and deeply enriching. She has completed Business Basics for Artists with Spruce Root, which provided her with the essential skills to navigate the commercial aspects of her art. She also studied Beginner Formline with James Hart at the Chilkoot Indian Association, gaining a deeper understanding of the fundamental elements of Northwest Coast design. Additionally, she refined her technical skills in Metal Engraving for Beginning/Intermediate with Abel Ryan at the Sealaska Heritage Institute. These experiences have equipped Skweit with a robust foundation in both the artistic and business facets of her craft.
The Chilkoot Indian Association recognized the potential and dedication of both Skweit and Jenny Lyn Smith by awarding them an art apprenticeship from January to September 2024. This program is a testament to their commitment to nurturing and developing traditional art forms. It also underscores the importance of mentorship and community support in sustaining cultural practices.
Designs by Skweit embodies a private gathering of self, preparation and continuation, and an invitation to show up and be present. Each piece of jewelry crafted by Skweit is more than an accessory; it is a piece of art that carries stories and traditions, inviting the wearer to connect with a deeper cultural narrative. The act of wearing or gifting these pieces is a personal ceremony, a way to honor oneself and the rich heritage of Tlingit culture.
Skweit Jessie Morgan not only creates beautiful jewelry but also fosters a deeper appreciation and understanding of Tlingit and Gwich’in Athabaskan cultures. Her work serves as a bridge between the past and the present, ensuring that the stories and traditions of her ancestors continue to inspire and resonate with new generations. As Skweit continues her artistic journey, she remains committed to the preservation and perpetuation of her cultural heritage, creating a lasting impact on both her community and the broader world of art.
