The Alaskan Artists And Their Natural World In Haines

The Alaskan Artists And Their Natural World In Haines Photo #1 of 2 Photo copyright ShoreTrips.com.

Overview

Much of the art produced by Alaskans celebrates the natural beauty that surrounds them.

The pristine beauty of Haines and the Chilkat Valley has served as an inspiration for native craftsmen and artists through the centuries. We'll visit three different locations and call on a variety of local artists as we explore this quaint and unspoiled community.

This tour includes:
• Round trip transfers
• 45-minute catamaran cruise through a steep-walled fjord to Haines
• Artist tour in Haines
• Boxed lunch

The trip begins with a high-speed catamaran cruise along the steep-walled fjords which connect Skagway to Haines, where you will be surrounded by spectacular scenery including more than a dozen unnamed waterfalls dropping hundreds of feet from both sides of the boat.

Our first stop is the Sheldon Museum, where a rich collection of local artifacts is on display, including an extensive display of Chilkat blankets, woven from red cedar bark and mountain goat wool. Your guide will explain the unique geography of this area and the influences which make Haines a renowned center for art and culture.

Next, we'll enjoy a brief tour of downtown Haines before heading out of town for a scenic drive along the Chilkat River. At the small artist's enclave of "Mud Bay," we'll stop at the Extreme Dreams Art Studio, owned by local artists John and Sharon Svenson. John is a talented watercolor and glass artist, and Sharon is well-known for her weavings and glass mosaics. Their hand-crafted timber frame art studio sports a spectacular view of the Rainbow Glacier and features the work of a select group of local artists.

Our tour continues at historic Fort William H. Seward, Alaska's first permanent army post. The former army hospital has been transformed into Alaska Indian Arts, a local non-profit arts center where native totem poles, masks, and jewelry are created. In the totem pole room, you'll meet a friendly local carver and can take pictures and ask questions to your heart's content.

There will be time for shopping at all three stops. Along the way, your guide will choose a scenic spot for a boxed lunch.

You'll return to Skagway, via catamaran, filled with memories and photographs from an unforgettable adventure.

• Don't forget your camera!

• Minimum of 6 people required for this tour.

Days offered: 7 days a week

Departures:

• , duration: 6.5 hours The departure time will be determined by ShoreTrips. Times vary due to ferry schedule.