Alaska Native Artist Spotlight: Angela Gonzalez (Athabascan)

About the Author: Samantha Phillips is Tlingit - Kaagwaantaan, Eagle/Brown Bear of Klukwan and grew up in Yakutat. As a young woman she learned of her Tlingit grandmother’s suffering of severe discrimination and mistreatment while attending a residential boarding school. Publicly speaking out about what her grandmother endured served as a powerful lesson to Samantha that Indigenous voices need to be heard. By focusing on making a difference, she has passionately poured her storytelling abilities into various writing pursuits. When she is not writing in her current home in Madison, Alabama, Samantha can be found making memories with her life’s work—her six children.

Angela Łot’oydaatlno Gonzalez is a powerhouse advocate for her Athabascan heritage, using digital platforms to illuminate its richness to the world. Since 2008, she has curated the vibrant Athabascan Woman Blog, a nurturing space where she passionately preserves and celebrates her Alaska Native roots. Complementing her blog, Angela launched a dedicated YouTube channel to impart the intricate arts of Athabascan beadwork and sewing, sharing her cultural treasures with a global audience.

"I come from a long line of storytellers," Angela shares, "and see sharing stories as a way to carry on traditions." With a background in communications and media, Angela recognized a critical need to reclaim and redefine the narratives surrounding Alaska Native communities. Her mission is twofold: to showcase the diverse talents of her people and to educate others to appreciate and respect their cultural heritage.

Storytelling isn't just tradition to Angela—it's a lifeline connecting generations. Growing up immersed in a family of storytellers, Angela experienced firsthand the power of narrative in preserving cultural identity. Through her blog and videos, she beautifully weaves tales that resonate across time, bridging the gap between tradition and modernity.

One of Angela's most innovative projects involves crafting culturally themed Barbies like Fish Camp Barbie and Moosehide Tanning Barbie. These detailed mini versions of Athabascan cultural practices aren't for sale; instead, they're lovingly donated to Alaska Native nonprofit organizations or auctioned to support community initiatives. Through these artistic endeavors, Angela ingeniously uses popular culture to spotlight her culture's profound heritage.

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Beyond visual artistry, Angela is a published author, penning two children's books that joyously celebrate her Athabascan roots. Her storytelling prowess extends to social media, where platforms like TikTok amplify her message to a global audience. A TikTok video featuring Fish Camp Barbie recently went viral, spreading awareness and appreciation for Alaska Native traditions far and wide.

Looking forward, Angela eagerly anticipates future projects, including creating a Dog Mushing Barbie. Her creative aspirations are driven by a deep-seated commitment to educate and enlighten others about the realities of Alaska Native life. Angela's goal is clear: to showcase the vibrancy and resilience of her community, dispelling stereotypes and inviting all to discover their deep connection to the land.

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Angela Gonzalez is a beacon, passionately affirming that Alaska Native communities thrive with culture, wisdom, and innovation. Through her digital platforms, she strives to foster understanding and appreciation for Athabascan heritage, inviting all to join in celebrating its richness. Her belief in the transformative power of art and storytelling unites people across boundaries, ensuring that the legacy of Athabascan traditions flourishes for generations to come.

Learn more about Angela, her work and Athabascan culture by visiting her blog or by following her on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube.