The Alaska Federation of Natives (AFN) was pleased to unveil the Alaska Native Veterans photo exhibit, Wednesday, October 18 at 5:30pm on the third floor of the Dena’ina Civic and Convention Center in Anchorage.
The exhibit features the work of photographer Bill Hess, in partnership with ConocoPhillips, and Additionally, Hess had a photo booth set up during the convention, where Alaska Native Veterans can have their photos taken for free. These photos will also be displayed during the convention.
“I recognize the great privilege granted me to have met, photographed, and interviewed many Alaska Native veterans over these past 42 years, most often in their home regions,” Bill said. “I hope the respect and honor I feel for them comes through in the work in this display. I thank Julie Kitka for having included my work in her persistent efforts to help AFN ensure the veterans and the sacrifices they have made are recognized and honored across Alaska and the U.S.”
The exhibit was followed by the Alaska premiere of One With the Whale. This documentary, filmed in Gambell, tells the story of Chris Apassingok—the youngest person in their community to harvest a whale.
