QACUNG RECEIVES DANCE/USA FELLOWSHIP

We are happy to continue a Spotlight on Dance/USA Fellowships to Artists. Today we highlight the work of Stephen Qacung Blanchett.

Qacung is an Alaskan performing artist, a culture-bearer, art and culture educator, and advocate for equity and inclusion. He is a global citizen whose Yup’ik roots guide his leadership and artistic vision. Early on in his nearly 30-year career, he realized his passion to teach the beautiful songs and dances of his culture.

Much of Qacung’s work is inspired by a quote by author Vine Deloria, “Being born Native is like being born into politics.” As an Alaska Native, he is passionate about his responsibility to fight for his traditions and heritage. In addition to his music and dance performances, he also teaches and perpetuates the Alaska Native traditions and is an advocate for equity and inclusion in the arts and culture industry.

Qacung is a graduate of the UAA: University of Alaska Anchorage with Bachelor of Arts degrees in Political Science and Alaska Native Studies. He has served in leadership roles with the Alaska Native Heritage Center, First Alaskans Institute, Pamyua., and other arts, culture, and community service entities. He is the Art Education Director for Juneau Arts and Humanities Council. He has received many awards, including the Rasmuson Foundation’s Artist Fellowship (2016 & 2019) and a 2015 National Artist Fellowship recipient through the Native Arts & Cultures Foundation.

To learn more about Qacung’s work and sample some of his music visit www.pamyua.com