Dance Stick and Figures (Keniraraun)
Wood, paint, feathers, wool, gut
Mekoryuk 1982
Maker: Qiawigar (Kay Hendrickson), 1909-2001
According to Nunivak Island Elders, dance sticks were originally made and used only during the annual Messenger Feast and then discarded, dispersing the spiritual energy connected to the piece. The hunter depicted is usually a representation of the maker, and he chases the animals on the stick. They represent all the types of animals the hunter has caught.
UAF Museum accession # UA83-003-0024AL