Art In The Arctic celebrates three northern refuges based in Fairbanks, Alaska: Arctic, Kanuti, and Yukon Flats National Wildlife Refuges.

The scale, expanse, and wildness of Alaska’s Refuges distinguish them from most other Refuges in the National Wildlife Refuge System.

These refuges protect habitats for wildlife, fish, and birds, as well as massive landscapes for unparalleled outdoor adventures.

Welcome to the 8th annual Art in the Arctic Art Show, held in the breathtaking landscape of Fairbanks, Alaska. This year’s theme, “Fire and Ice,” pays tribute to the delicate balance of nature that shapes our environment and the majestic wildlife that calls our northern wild lands home.

Art in the Arctic showcases the beauty of three iconic Alaskan National Wildlife Refuges: the Arctic, Kanuti, and Yukon Flats. These vast, untamed landscapes offer sanctuary to diverse wildlife, fish, and birds, while providing unparalleled outdoor adventures for nature enthusiasts.

This year, we explore the intricate dance between fire and ice, two seemingly opposing forces that work together to shape the vibrant ecosystems of Alaska. Fire, as a natural process, can rejuvenate forests by removing thick vegetation, promoting soil health, and encouraging native plant growth. While fires are becoming more frequent and intense, they also play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance and reducing the risk of larger, more destructive fires.

Ice, on the other hand, represents the frozen expanses that characterize the northern reaches of Alaska. As the climate changes, break-up and freeze-up patterns shift, impacting wildlife, habitats, and human activities. Thinner ice and unpredictable conditions challenge traditional ways of life and access to subsistence resources.

By bringing together diverse artistic perspectives, Art in the Arctic: Embracing the Dance of Fire and Ice aims to foster a deeper understanding of and appreciation for the incredible ecosystems of Alaska’s National Wildlife Refuges. Co-hosted by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Friends of Alaska National Wildlife Refuges, this exhibit invites you to explore the complex interplay between fire and ice, witness their transformative power, and celebrate the resilience of the natural world.

Join us on this artistic journey as we delve into the dynamic forces that shape Alaska’s wild lands and honor the resilience and beauty of our planet.

This year’s show will highlight the artist, their artwork, and the artist’s story and connection with fire + ice found in at least one of the three northern refuges.