Tom Akeya

Tom Akeya (born November 9, 1960) is a Siberian Yupik ivory carver. His work has been sold in multiple places.

Biography and education Tom Akeya was born on November 9, 1960, in Savoonga, St. Lawrence Island in Alaska. He attended elementary school in Savoonga, middle school at Nome-Beltz Middle High School in Nome, and high school at Senior High School which is also located in Nome. The purpose of starting the project was to help the communities involved better understand and preserve Bowhead Whales since they are the main form of sustenance for these groups. The two whales that were tagged by Akeya and his crew were the first whales ever to be tagged near St. Lawrence Island. Ivory carvings that originate from Savoonga are considered to be more realistic yet simpler in their presentation with a style that is easily distinguishable most of the ivory that's used in Akeya's carvings are self produced. Dentine is usually found with different layers: a first later that possess a creamy appearance with a second layer under that has a more crystallized appearance. The ivory that Akeya mainly used was a specific walrus ivory that could be denoted due to its multiple layers. The main materials used are both leather and ivory. These goggles helped Alaskan Natives navigate around winter while avoiding being blinded by snow. It is most likely fossil walrus ivory and the dark color indicates that the tusk was most likely found underwater. This piece is considered as one of Akeya's signature pieces.

Ivory Owl Ivory Owl is a carving created by Tom Akeya that features an owl carved from walrus ivory with mammoth ivory used for the eyes and baleen used for the pupils and beak.

Collections (museums and galleries)

Although there are no specific works stated, he is featured in Arctic Spirit Gallery. Although there are no specific works stated, he is featured in the Autry Museum of the American West.