Artist Statement
Clarissa Rizal weaving a Raven
Chilkat robe for Anne Gould-Hauberg in 2001. |
"The artist invents a tradition. The Craftsman maintains and preserves the tradition. This definition shields against any criticism a “contemporary” Native artist may face when compared to a “traditional” craftsman artist. I view myself as a contemporary traditionalist, creating works in the “now” branching from traditional art forms, always acknowledging my Tlingit heritage. The Future will protect my work if it “feeds” others, inspires others. Other artists may take it up and create new works, a synthesis, a new form for the future. The work is a reflection of my internal world where a part of me has “stepped into a light”, one that may be colorful and bright----and on rare occasion, dark. I delight in the discoveries and perspective; exploring new ways of seeing the present world, always at the threshold of the future, while acknowledging those who inspired, taught me, and provided the “traditional” foundation from where I come." -- Clarissa Rizal