Silver Hand Permit Program (Alaska)

Silver Hand Permit Program

Administering Agency: Alaska State Council on the Arts (ASCA)

Geographic Scope: Alaska only

Purpose: Authentication system helping Alaska Native artists promote their work and enabling consumers to identify genuine Alaska Native products

Focus Areas:

• Authentication of original Alaska Native handmade artwork
• Artist promotion and marketing
• Consumer education about authentic Alaska Native arts

What Can Be Tagged:

• Original works only (not reproductions or manufactured items)
• Contemporary and traditional artworks
• Must be handmade in Alaska by an Alaska Native artist

Eligibility:

• Alaska Native artists (traditional practitioners, contemporary artists, and emerging artists)
• Must create original handmade works

Program Details:

• Permit Validity: Two years
• Current Enrollment: Approximately 2,500 artists registered
• Tags Provided: Distinctive Silver Hand tags provided to label works for sale
• Documentation: Artists encouraged to document unique patterns and designs
• Legal Protection: Protected under Alaska trademark statute

Benefits:

• Simple, cost-effective way to distinguish work from mass-produced merchandise
• Distinctive Silver Hand tags indicate handmade items
• Enhanced market access and consumer recognition
• Educational value for tourists and retailers

Recent Trends:

• Upswing in new and returning applicants after 2018-2020 lull
• Growing participation among traditional and contemporary practitioners

Contact Information:

• Alaska State Council on the Arts
• ASCA Indigenous Arts & Culture Program Director: Patti Oksoktaruk Lillie, Inupiaq
• Website: nasaa-arts.org/alaska-native-arts-and-culture-programs/

Application Process

• Submission: Artists apply to ASCA for Silver Hand permits
• Permit Duration: Valid for two years
• Renewal: Permits must be renewed after two-year period

Permit Benefits

• Issuance of distinctive Silver Hand tags for labeling works
• Artist registry enrollment
• Access to artist support services
• Documentation opportunities for patterns and designs

Note: Specific application procedures and deadlines available through Alaska State Council on the Arts.