Studying Arts in Alaska

Those choosing Alaska as their location for arts studies will be pleased at the inherent beauty of America's largest state, as well as by its unique cultural influences.

Students of the arts based in Alaska will enjoy a unique environment, located in a region that was formerly part of Russia, which also borders Canada. The culture of this beautiful state has been greatly influenced by the indigenous people as well as those who immigrated to America's largest state.

Those studying the arts in Alaska will be interested in the Alaska Native Heritage Center. Also of particular interest to sculptors and painters is the Alaska Native Arts Foundation that markets pieces online, at its gallery in Anchorage, and at Alaska House New York, in the heart of New York City.

Students acquiring university or college degrees in music will appreciate the varied musical influences of the region, including those from the Alaska natives as well as those from Russian and European immigrants. Pop music fans may recall that in recent years, Alaska has spawned a pop singer success story by the name of Jewel.

Alaska is home to several music festivals ranging from jazz to old-time fiddling. Folk music is well represented by events such as the Alaska Folk Festival and the Anchorage Folk Festival. Those interested in classical genres will be inspired by the proximity of symphony orchestras in Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Juneau. The state also boasts a professional opera company called Anchorage Opera.

The beautiful state of Alaska offers a vibrant setting for those earning degrees in the various studies of the arts. Cultural inspiration is present from both the indigenous people as well as the settlers who've chosen to make Alaska their permanent home.