Local Artists/Artisans

Question

Hello, we have heard there are an abundance of t-shirt shops and "made in China" type souvenirs, so would love help with our plan to seek out locally made goods, artists, artisans, craftsmen, etc. Please let us know if you know of any stores or studios in the Ketchikan area that might match what we're looking for. Thank you!

Answer

Ketchikan has a vibrant local arts scene, and while there are many tourist-oriented shops with mass-produced souvenirs, there are several places where you can find genuine local craftsmanship, from Native Alaskan art to contemporary pieces by local artists.

Here are some options to explore for locally made goods and artisan work:

Creek Street Galleries – A historic area with multiple small galleries showcasing local painters, sculptors, and jewelers.
Rainbird Art – Specializes in Alaskan Native art, including carved masks, totem replicas, and handcrafted jewelry by local artisans.
Alaska Hands – A cooperative gallery featuring a rotating selection of work from local artists and craftsmen, including textiles, wood carvings, and paintings.
Ketchikan Fine Art Gallery – Focuses on fine art by regional artists, with opportunities to meet the artists in person during certain events.
Totem Heritage Center – While primarily a museum, they have a gift shop with authentic local carvings and artisan crafts.
Local artist studios on Stedman Street and Creek Street – Several working studios offer visitors a chance to see the creative process and purchase unique pieces directly from the artists.

Tips for finding authentic local pieces:

Look for galleries and shops that specifically state “locally made” or “Alaskan artist” rather than generic souvenir shops.
Check for artist signatures on paintings, carvings, and jewelry.
Ask gallery staff or artists about the origin of the materials – many authentic pieces use local wood, stone, or other natural resources.

Visiting Ketchikan’s downtown and historic Creek Street area is a good way to combine sightseeing with discovering authentic local art, and you’re likely to come across several hidden studios and small shops that aren’t as heavily trafficked by cruise tourists.

Local Artists/Artisans

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