Dave Galanin

David Galanin was interviewed on December 8, 1999 by Kristen Griffin and Karen Brewster at the Southeast Alaska Indian Cultural Center in Sitka, Alaska. According to Dave's wishes, the interview was tape recorded but not videotaped. At six feet tall, with broad shoulders, and a serious face, Dave created a strong presence in the room. He was a man of few, but eloquent, words. During the interview, Dave is casually leaned back in a chair with his feet propped up on a large block of wood waiting to be carved. He seems relaxed. His background as a radio DJ and his work on the History Pole gave him experience with public speaking and answering questions. He was in a bit of a hurry, with art projects to complete and an upcoming trip to the Te Ra Artfest 2000 in Gisborne, New Zealand to prepare for. In this interview, Dave talks about his work as a silver carver, artist, and Tlingit culture bearer. In addition, he discusses his connections with the Southeast Alaska Indian Cultural Center and the important role the institution plays in the promotion of Alaska Native art and artists, and the Cultural Center's project to carve and raise the Indian River History Pole. This pole was unique in that it was a collaborative effort between clans and they chose to raise it "traditionally." It required a lot of instruction from elders and negotiating between clans. As Director of the Cultural Center Board at the time, Dave was in the center of it all -- all the joy, the celebration, the pride, as well as all the conflict, controversy and struggles to do things "right." Dave shows us some of what went on behind the scenes of this important event. He honestly shares his feelings about the Cultural Center, the pole project, and his artwork.