After the 2023 Governor's Arts & Humanities Award ceremony, we sat down with a number of the recipients to find out what inspires their work. Each of these artists embody the mission of Amplify Alaska, using their art and passion for culture to support and uplift their communities. The conversation centered on the power of gathering, and how community and communication empowers people. We talked about how cultural education encourages cross-cultural and interpersonal connection, rather than separation, which in turn leads to positive forward change.

Learn more about the recipients and their work at www.akgovawards.org/awards.

Our guests from left to right:

• Yngvil Vatn Guttu, Host of Amplify Alaska
• Pedro Garcia Quintana and Jenny Moore - Hope Studios: Arts Business Leadership Award
• Heather Lende: 2021-2023 Alaska State Writer Laureate
• Edward K. Thomas (President Emeritus CCTHITA): Distinguished Service to the Humanities in Community Award
• Ayaprun Loddie Jones (Elder, Teacher, Lower Kuskokwim School District): Distinguished Service to the Humanities in Education Award
• Marjorie Kunaq Tahbone (Inupiaq/Kiowa culture bearer): Margaret Nick Cooke Award for Alaska Native Arts and Languages
• John Damberg (Founder, CEO Alaska Jazz Workshop): Individual Artist Award