1. Elizabeth Peratrovich (1911-1958): Peratrovich was a prominent civil rights activist and a member of the Tlingit tribe. She is best known for her work in passing the Anti-Discrimination Act in 1945, which prohibited discrimination based on race, color, or ancestry in Alaska.
2. Richard Peterson (1936-2014): Peterson was a renowned Tlingit artist, sculptor, and carver. He was famous for his unique style that blended traditional Tlingit art with contemporary influences. His artwork has been exhibited globally and is renowned for its intricate carvings, masks, and sculptures.
3. Lance Twitchell (1959-2020): Twitchell was a Tlingit photographer, artist, and musician. He gained recognition for his contributions to contemporary Tlingit art through photography, beadwork, and traditional Tlingit drum-making. Twitchell's work often explored themes of cultural identity and resilience.
4. Nora Marks Dauenhauer (1927-2009): Dauenhauer was a Tlingit writer, storyteller, and educator. She played a vital role in preserving Tlingit oral history, language, and traditions through her writings, books, and educational initiatives. Dauenhauer's work has been widely celebrated for its cultural significance and insights into Tlingit culture.
5. Walter Soboleff (1896-1977): Soboleff was a prominent Tlingit carver and artist. He was known for his masterful wood carvings and sculptures that depicted traditional Tlingit designs, stories, and cultural elements. Soboleff's artwork can be found in museums, galleries, and private collections worldwide.