Israel Shotridge is one of Alaska’s finest Tlingit carvers, he was born and raised in Ketchikan, Alaska in the heart of the Tongass National Forest which was named after his tribal ancestors; the Tongass Tribe (Taantakwaan), the SeaLion people.  Israel is a member of the Bear Clan (“Teikweidee”).  Israel ’s Tlingit name, Kinstaadaal, means “The Bear That’s Standing Up.”  His lineage is from his mother Esther Shea who was the matriarch of the Teikweidee-Taantakwaan of Ketchikan , from the Kaats Hit Bear House.  His father Milton Jackson was a Kaagwantaan Tlingit from Klukwan , Alaska .  Over the past 25 years, Israel has accomplished many significant works of art.  Most noted are the many replicated monumental tribal totem poles located throughout Southeast Alaska .  Shotridge’s totems stand in Totem Bight National State Park , Klawock , Alaska ’s Totem Park , Saxman , Alaska ’s Totem Park and downtown Ketchikan .    Shotridge’s Totem Poles, House Screens, Relief Panels, Masks, Canoes, Bentwood Boxes and Ceremonial Objects all have been commissioned specifically for museums, airports, public, corporate and private collections throughout the United States, Scotland, Germany and England. As a highly skilled Master in Carving and Engraving, Israel ’s artworks are continually sought after by collectors wishing to acquire the finest in traditional Tlingit artistry. As an Alaskan Native Artist, Israel brings to his work the pride and sensitivity of his Indian heritage.  The sophisticated beauty of the Tlingit designs are highly regarded in the world of art and his fine work is faithful to those traditional natural images.