Kaa Shaayí fka KáaSháyee
Creating Connections: Art, Community, Heritage
About Kaa Shaayí
Kaa Shaayi, a Tlingit artist from Ketchikan, Alaska, dedicates his practice to exploring Formline design, the customary visual language of his ancestors. His work thoughtfully brings this enduring art form into contemporary contexts, creating a dialogue between traditional aesthetics and modern expression. The Tlingit are a Native Tribe of Alaska, with a rich artistic heritage that Kaa Shaayi honors and evolves through his work.
A two-time recipient of research grants from the Bill Holm Center at the Burke Museum, Kaa Shaayi’s practice is grounded in careful study of historical Tlingit objects. His research has encompassed traditional paddle craftsmanship and early Tlingit Formline decorated items, deepening his understanding of this visual language. In 2024, Kaa Shaayi graduated with highest honors from Northwest Indian College, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Native Studies Leadership with an emphasis on Northwest Coast Design. This immersion in his cultural heritage, both through academic study and hands-on research, has shaped his artistic perspective and techniques.
Through his artwork, Kaa Shaayi explores cultural continuity and identity in today’s world. While rooted in tradition, his work engages with contemporary themes and materials, reflecting the living nature of Formline design and its relevance in modern society.
Kaa Shaayi’s commitment extends beyond his personal artistic practice. He actively engages with his community, sharing his knowledge through workshops and collaborative projects. This outreach is vital in preserving and transmitting traditional Tlingit artistic knowledge to younger generations. It promotes appreciation for Formline design within the broader community, strengthens cultural bonds among Tlingit people, and promotes cross-cultural understanding of Tlingit art.
Looking forward, Kaa Shaayi plans to continue developing his artistic practice, applying his understanding of Formline design to various mediums. His unique perspective, blending traditional knowledge with contemporary vision, offers a thoughtful contribution to the art world.
Kaa Shaayi’s work invites viewers to consider the enduring nature of Formline design and its place in modern society. By reimagining this ancestral art form in current contexts, his art serves as a bridge between generations, encouraging ongoing engagement with the rich, evolving tradition of Northwest Coast Native Art. Through his creative work and community involvement, Kaa Shaayi not only honors Tlingit artistic traditions but also inspires future artists to carry this legacy forward.
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