Dave Galanin is a Tlingit Silver Carver from Southeast Alaska. He was born into the Eagle Nest House of the Kaagwaantaan Clan and was named Kindaa′. This name means “to be taken up with the eagles”. At a Koo.Eex’ (memorial party) in 1996, Dave was also given the name Dei Kee Tla Tin, which means “to be on a high point and look far out to sea”. Dave comes from a family of carvers, including his grandfather, brother, sons, and now his nephew. He has been influenced by them all and has a natural affinity for the art.
Dave began carving in 1982, studying under Tlingit elder and master silver carver, Louis
Minard. Dave’s art work combines both the traditional and contemporary design, primarily using copper, silver, and gold. He also carves in stone, such as jade, lapis, obsidian, ivory, and bone. Dave currently teaches introductory workshops in silver carving techniques at the University of Alaska, Southeast as a part of their Northwest Coast Native Arts program. He also provides training in silver carving through formal apprenticeships.
In addition to his private business, Galanin Silverworks, Dave has demonstrated his artwork for visitors to Alaska at the Southeast Alaska Indian Cultural Center and the Sheldon Jackson Museum, both in Sitka. He has lectured for museums, universities, and public schools alike, both in Alaska and New Zealand. His work is commissioned from private collectors as well as corporate business, and includes organizations such as the Sitka Summer Music Festival, SheeAtika, Inc., Sitka Tribal Enterprises, SE Alaska Indian Cultural Center, Alaska Veterans Hospital in Anchorage, Sitka Fine Arts, and now in Seattle, exclusively at Stonington Gallery.
Dave currently resides in Sitka, Alaska on Baranof Island, in Southeast Alaska.