Experience a Touch of Alaska in Arizona with Tlingit Artist James Johnson During First Friday at the Heard Museum
This June, step into a refreshing First Friday at the Heard Museum as we bring an evening inspired by Alaska Native arts and culture to the desert. Meet artist James Johnson (Tlingit) for a live carving demonstration, where you’ll see traditional techniques take shape and hear firsthand how his work is rooted in heritage, storytelling, and place. It’s a rare opportunity to experience the artistry and cultural knowledge that flow from the Pacific Northwest coast — cool in spirit, even on a warm Phoenix night.
The Cantina will be open late, serving up a delicious selection of food and drinks to keep you refreshed as you explore. And as always, admission to the Heard Museum is FREE* during First Friday.
*Add-on experience fee required for entry to Molly of Denali: An Alaskan Adventure in Steele Auditorium.
Adult: $10
Senior (65+): $7
Military: $7
Student (with ID): $5
Children (6-17): $5
Add-on experience fee can be paid at the door. Click here to learn more about Molly of Denali: An Alaskan Adventure.
About the Artist
James Johnson is an award-winning Tlingit artist and carver from Juneau, Alaska. He belongs to the Ch’áak’ Dakl’aweidi Clan (Eagle Killerwhale) and carries forward a powerful lineage of leaders and makers, including Chiefs Gusht’eiheen, Jimmy Johnson, and Peter Johnson, for whom he is named. Encouraged by his late father, Franklin Johnson, he has dedicated his life to perpetuating the Tlingit art form — honoring his ancestors through his art.
Made possible at the Heard Museum thanks to:
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Presenting Sponsors
Anonymous
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Opening Weekend Presenting Partner
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Supporting Sponsors
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Youth & Family Programming Sponsors
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Youth & Family Programming Sponsors
Molly of Denali: An Alaskan Adventure is a nationally traveling exhibit created by The Magic House, St. Louis Children’s Museum in collaboration with GBH Kids and a team of Alaska Native advisors. Molly of Denali is a trademark or registered trademark of WGBH Educational Foundation. Used with permission. The series and underlying indicia known as Molly of Denali ©2019 WGBH Educational Foundation. All rights reserved. PBS KIDS® and the PBS KIDS Logo are trademarks owned by Public Broadcasting Service. Used with permission. © 2025 Public Broadcasting Service. All rights reserved.