104 College Drive
On Friday, August 29th at 2:00 pm, Sydney Akagi (Llingit, Kiks.ádi) will give an artist talk titled, “Threads of Resurgence: Chilkat Weaving, Repatriation, and the Power of Indigenous female art in Alaska.” This Artist Talk will be held in-person at Sheldon Jackson Museum and simultaneously online.
This Artist Talk explores the revitalization of Chilkat weaving through the eyes of Tlingit Chilkat weaver Sydney Akagi. Sydney will focus on their role as an artist and traditional art knowledge-bearer. Through stories of repatriation and creative innovation, we will examine how ancestral weaving practices are being reclaimed, reshaped, while also naturally, respectfully and organically evolved for future generations. The talk will highlight how this dynamic art form is not only surviving but evolving through community-led efforts rooted in cultural sovereignty and gendered resilience. Akagi will also share her progress to date on the robe she worked on while at the Sheldon Jackson museum.
Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82846526068?pwd=2b3bv0qZ5sTyyfaI5QznA3qehrwAWz.1
Meeting ID: 828 4652 6068
Passcode: Recap
Sydney Akagi is a Tlingit, Kiks.ádi weaver of both Ravenstail and Chilkat. She is the SJM Native Artist in Residence from August 11 – August 29, 2025.
Akagi is an enrolled member of Tlingit and Haida Tribes of Alaska. Growing up, she developed a passion for the arts and always had a deep love for fiber arts. It wasn’t until 2018 when Sydney first began weaving Ravenstail style, that she felt a calling to one particular art form. In 2020 she apprenticed in Chilkat weaving under Lily Hope, and although equally passionate about both styles of weaving, she finds great love for combining the two within her artwork. Since beginning weaving, Sydney’s work has reflected her relationship with her culture and the healing that has occurred by replicating and being inspired by traditional ceremonial woven pieces.
