Joseph Tabios Traditional Qayaq Dedication Ceremony

Creators and Contributors Joseph Tabios (Contributor)
Kris Tabios (Contributor)
Jonathon Sawden (Contributor)
Andrew Abyo (Contributor)
Derenty Tabios (Contributor)
Cindy Tabios (Contributor)
Mark Hiratsuka (Contributor)
Nicholas Jordan (Contributor)
Dawn Randazzo (Contributor)
National Park Service (Contributor)

Summary This is a recording of the Traditional Qayaq Dedication Ceremony held on July 29, 2023 in Seward, AK honoring the late master qayaq builder Joe Tabios.

In 2022 Joseph Tabios along with his son Kris Tabios and apprentice Jonathon Sawden began constructing the traditional Sugpiaq qayaq in Seward, AK. Joe and Kris completed the frame at Nuuciq Spirit Camp on Hinchinbrook Island, and Andrew Abyo and Kris completed the skinning of the qayaq in early 2023. Following the completion of the qayaq, this celebration was held to unveil the qayaq and to honor the cultural preservation efforts of Joe Tabios.

The qayaq was made in collaboration between Chugachmiut Heritage Preservation and The Kenai Fjords National Park Service. The qayaq is on permanent display at the Kenai Fjords National Parks Visitors Center in Seward, AK.