Artists/Culture Bearers

As each year passes our traditional elders leave us one by one. With the loss of our elders Alaska Native cultures are losing priceless traditional knowledge and wisdom. Therefore, our artists are dedicated to learning, preserving, and passing on our culture and traditions...from ancient times.

Brian Randazzo, Sr.

Brian Randazzo Sr. is an Sugpiaq-Aluutiq Artist. His Sugpiaq-Aluutiq name is Sepaaq. He was born to a full-blooded Sugpiaq-Aluutiq mother, Judith Kompkoff, and a Sicilian-Irish father, Richard Randazzo Sr. Brian's ancestors originated from Nuchek, Alaska. They eventually migrated to Tatitlek, Alaska.

Brian has been involved for many years in traditional Alaska Native sports, and holds the world record in the two foot high kick established in 1984. He is known throughout the arctic as a honorable Native games athlete. He was born in Anchorage, Alaska. Brian is researching the crafts of the Sugpiaq and Alaska Native people, with an emphasis on knowledge of traditional tools and artwork. Brian has also earned Certification as a Substance Abuse Counselor/Technician.

Shawn Seetomona

Shawn Seetomona is an Inupiaq Artist. His Inupiaq names are Avessuk and Sagoonick. He was born to a full-blooded Inupiaq mother, Lorena Seetomona, and an Irish father, Francis Robert Mackie. Shawn's ancestors originated from Shishmaref, Kigiktaq, Alaska.

Shawn was raised in Anchorage, Alaska. His grandparents and mother ensured he learned and appreciated much of the traditional lifestyle. He has participated in learning and teaching traditional games. He now researches the crafts of the Inupiaq and Alaska Native people, with an emphasis on knowledge of traditional jewelry and artwork. Shawn has earned a B.A. in Criminal Justice and is pursuing his Masters in Business Administration.

Sheila Randazzo

Sheila is an Inupiaq Artist. Her Inupiaq names are Tusaagvik and Mamasuk She was born to a full-blooded Inupiaq mother, Lorena Seetomona, and an Irish father, Frances Robert Mackie. Sheila's ancestors originated from Shishmaref, Kigiktaq, Alaska.

Sheila is a twin to Shawn Seetomona. She was born in Anchorage, Alaska and raised by grandparents and mother who taught traditional ways. She is knowledgeable of traditional games. Although she has studied traditional Inupiaq and Alaska Native crafts of skin sewing, currently her interests have lead her to researching traditional healthy ways of life, values, and worldviews. Sheila has earned a B.A. in Social Work, with a minor in Anthropology.