Introduction

No passport needed - leave immediatley for an exciting adventure into America's last frontier. Experience the ancient and modern culture of the Yu'pik Arctic Indian tribe through the tradition of mask making. No dates and names of famous or infamous people to remember. Pack only your open mind and depart at any time!

Questions

1. Describe the purpose and significance of the mask and the masked dance among Yu'pik communities.
   
   
2. What does the word Yu'pik mean?
   Geographically, where would you find the Yu'pik tribe?
   
   
3. How did Yu'pik tribal members sustain their communities many generations ago? How do they sustain them today?
   
   
4. Why do you think Yu'pik masks are considered art? What happens to the Yu'pik masks after they are presented to the community?
   
   

The Internet Resources

• Alaska Native heritage center
• Our Way of Making Prayer
• Art in Alaska
• Living traditions of Yupik masks

The Big Question

Now, after viewing and reading these pages, briefly write the key tradiions the Yu'pik tribes have handed down from generation to generation and why you might feel this would be important. How does the Yu'pik art of mask making contribute to the understanding of their culture?