A Top 100 Small Arts Community
Ketchikan has been designated one of the “Top 100 Small Arts Communities in the United States” and hosts arts themed festivals and special events throughout the year. Ketchikan is home to a diverse population of artists who find inspiration in the scenic beauty, flora and fauna and the historic and cultural attributes of our town. Most local galleries are artist-owned. Art show openings are a monthly event.
The Ketchikan Area Arts and Humanities Council serves as an umbrella organization for the Ketchikan arts scene by promoting arts and cultural groups, local artists, art education programs and hosting performances and art exhibits throughout the year.
The Tongass Historical Museum’s comprehensive collection of artifacts, documents and photography provide the inspiration for historically themed exhibits each year. Especially popular are the museum’s invitational exhibits – residents share their own treasures based on a common theme, offering a unique glimpse into the people who make Ketchikan their home.
The Totem Heritage Center’s collection of 19th century totem poles, rescued from abandoned native villages is listed on the National Historic Register. Up until the center was established in 1976 these cultural treasures would have been lost to natural deterioration. Today the poles are protected, and provide present day native artisans a chance to study the traditional art forms of the Northwest Coast native tribes in our area.
Dolly’s House Museum on Creek Street provides a glimpse at the life of a working girl back when the Creek’s “red light district” was in full swing. Furnishings, clothing and special features in the house capture the spirit of the Creek.
A variety of performances are scheduled throughout the year featuring local and visiting artists in music, dance and theatre. Workshops and lectures offer learning opportunities in traditional native and classical art forms, natural and local history and science. Native dance performances, film presentations like the award-winning “Mystical Southeast Alaska” and the home-grown melodrama “Fish Pirates Daughter” provide a glimpse of the culture and history of Ketchikan.