Icebreakers: Alaska's Most Innovative Artists

This text takes a look at the last 25 years of contemporary visual art production in Alaska. Isolated geographically from the rest of the country, Alaska offers artists a challenging environment in which to make art. In this setting, a small but significant group of artists has claimed Alaska as its home and worked to push the boundaries and definition of contemporary art. The book celebrates these artists: those who came, those who left, and those who continue to live and work in the state today. Essays offer personal insights and document the history of contemporary art in Alaska - its players, failures, and achievements. The artwork featured includes painting, sculpture, drawing, photography, ceramics, installations, video, and performance art. All reflect the creativity, innovation, brilliance, and range of the artists who have helped define Alaskan contemporary art during this critical period.